0950 GMT - Sterling would likely rise if the Bank of England's policy decision at 1100 GMT strengthens market pricing for an interest-rate rise in September, MUFG Bank's Derek Halpenny says in a note. The BOE could convey increased concerns over the implications of the Middle East conflict, he says. A conflict that drags on appears a greater risk today than at the June meeting, he says. A more prolonged energy price rise could "certainly force the BOE to act even in circumstances of mixed labor market conditions." The market prices a 50% chance of a rate rise in September, LSEG data show. Sterling falls 0.1% to $1.3357. The euro falls 0.1% to 0.8571 pounds.