I cannot be certain of what is going to happen but having had the experience of being on a fixed rate many moons ago and it cost me. What I would do if I was in your position I would go for the SVR as I feel that the banks have priced in a margin of safety in their 5 year fixed. I am not all that sure that the 1% Stamp Duty will be enough to keep them competitive when competition becomes keener. I just feel that SVR rates will fall in the near future. I suppose I like a small bit of risk but the call is ultimately yours. I do not see much of a downside to going variable. Good luck in whatever you choose.