Bernanke doesn't expect interest rate change soon

WASHINGTON — The Federal Reserve is unlikely to change interest rates anytime soon, Fed Chairman Ben Bernanke suggested again Thursday, striking an upbeat tone about the economy as he voiced continued concern about inflation.

Bernanke said the economy is likely to grow at a "moderate pace" in 2007 and 2008. That comes despite a dramatic slowing in housing that has so far had little dampening effect on consumers, the lifeblood of the economy.

The remarks prepared for delivery to the House Financial Services Committee on Thursday appeared identical to his testimony to the Senate Banking Committee on Wednesday. Bernanke delivers the Fed's monetary policy report to both houses of Congress twice a year.