Sterling fell to its lowest level against the dollar since 2009 but was little changed against the euro at almost 76.5 pence after Bank of England governor Mark Carney yesterday signalled a boost to UK interest rates is still some way off.

Etihad Airways has signalled it would be willing to sell its stake in Aer Lingus if the Government backs the offer made by International Airlines Group (IAG) for the Dublin-based carrier.