Cowen u-turn on stamp duty predicted

One of Ireland's most well-known economists is predicting that Minister for Finance Brian Cowen (pictured) will row back on his vow not to change the stamp-duty regime in this December's budget.

One of Ireland's most well-known economists is predicting that Minister for Finance Brian Cowen will row back on his vow not to change the stamp-duty regime in this December's budget.

Mr Cowen has insisted that he will not use the budget to interfere in the housing market, but there is growing speculation that he may change his stance due to increasing political pressure.