LONDON (Reuters) - The Bank of England held interest rates at 5.0 percent yesterday for the fourth straight month, and borrowing costs are expected to remain on hold for a while as policy-makers balance slowing growth and rising inflation.

All 76 analysts polled by Reuters had predicted the no-change decision. Most expect steady rates for the rest of the year, followed by cuts next year to revive the economy once inflation starts coming down toward the two-percent target.

"The (Monetary Policy) Committee will likely stand pat for the remainder of the year as the tug of war between slower growth and mounting price pressures continues," said Stuart Porteous, head of RBS Group Economics.

"We expect rates to be lowered next year as inflation comes off its peak and the economy struggles to find its feet."