UK interest rate cut looms as move backed by fifth policymaker

Balance tilts towards cutting 0.75% rate as latest member of Bank of England's panel speaks

Momentum towards an interest cut is growing after a third member of the Bank of England's rate-setting committee signalled that the British economy could require support from lower borrowing costs within months.

Gertjan Vlieghe, an independent member of Threadneedle Street's nine-member monetary policy committee (MPC), said on Sunday he would vote for a cut in rates later this month from 0.75% - if key barometers of economic strength fail to reveal a bounce straight after the December general election.

Related: Bank of England governor hints at interest rate cut