The Bradford Chamber of Commerce has called on the Monetary Policy Committee to follow the example set by the US Central Bank last week when it cut its interest rate.

The bank cut rates by 0.5 per cent to prevent the country's economy entering recession.

Judith Donovan CBE, president of the Bradford Chamber of Commerce, said: "The step taken by the US Central Bank to attempt to prevent an economy in slowdown entering recession is an example of positive action.

"It would be appropriate for our Monetary Policy Committee to follow their example.

"UK businesses, particularly those in the manufacturing sector and exporters, need a boost at a time when profits are being squeezed."