Larger lenders fastest to react to rate cut

These include Abbey, Cheltenham & Gloucester, Halifax, Nationwide, NatWest/Royal Bank of Scotland and Woolwich.

Moneyfacts.co.uk's analyst, Lisa Taylor said that lenders have reacted relatively slowly compared to the last time rates fell back.

“Whilst mortgage rates have moved at a similar pace to the last two rate increases in July and May, compared to the last time we saw rates fall back in August 2005 where 46 lenders had made an announcement, the rate of change now appears to be relatively slow.

She added that, with the exception of six of the rate changes, the remaining 26 have passed on the full quarter point reduction.

“Although this latest reduction was foreseen, its timing was a little earlier than many expected. With the financial markets still unsettled and dealing with the ongoing credit crisis, it is no surprise that it seems to be reacting differently to this base rate move.

"Historically we have taken it for granted that virtually all banks and building societies will move their savings and mortgage standard variable rates. But the early signs may indicate this may not be the case this time.

“Only time will tell whether all mortgage borrowers will benefit from the cut or if savers will be fortunate enough to hold on to their current rates.”