ZURICH (Reuters), Robert Holzmann, European Central Bank policymaker, said Saturday that the ECB would be able quickly to determine if inflation has fallen as anticipated next year and adjust its monetary policies accordingly.

Holzmann stated in an interview to Austrian broadcaster OE1 that signs point towards higher inflation than the forecast. This assessment can be controlled quickly once we know where inflation rates go next year.

He said that “if there is no sharp decline”, other central bank colleagues would certainly reconsider their positions, and we’ll adjust our monetary policy.” This week’s ECB meeting was “well balanced” in view of the uncertainty posed by Omicron coronavirus.

A variety of policy makers spoke out Friday to warn that the ECB could be underestimated by inflation risks following the extension of stimulus measures.

According to sources, Reuters was told by sources that Holzmann, Austria’s central bank governor was one of the conservative policymakers who opposed continuing bond purchases by the ECB.

Holzmann did not comment on his voting behavior. However, it was clear that differences in vote behaviour are more a result of nuances than large divergences.

“All members of the ECB governing board are ready to act in the event that inflation is forecast as rising.” He stated that the measures in place could be reduced or removed.