Crisis-hit mortgage lender Northern Rock suffered again today despite a stock market bounce on hopes of lower interest rates.

British manufacturers were given a boost today as an industry survey showed export orders rose to a 10-year high this month.

The case for a further cut in interest rates was reinforced today after inflation stayed below target for a second month running in January.

The Bank of England kept an inflation target of 2% in its sights today - providing a signal that interest rates may remain on hold.