Services growth adds to rate rise calls with Bank decision on knife-edge

Final snapshot on economy before Bank's decision shows strong rise in activity in services sector

The Bank of England is considering raising interest rates for the first time since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic, against a backdrop of rising inflationary pressures and a rebound in economic growth.

In a final snapshot from the economy before the rate decision is announced on Thursday, monthly data showed a stronger-than-expected rise in activity in Britain's dominant services sector during October.