Unemployment fell less than expected according to the latest US figures published earlier today, helping reverse fears of interest rate rises there, and helping the FTSE add 31.90 points to 4,571.80 by the close.
British Airways gained most, up 8.75p to 294.5p after figures showed a rise in European airline passenger numbers and business hotels in the US reported they could increase room prices because of demand. Intercontinental, the hotels business spun out of Six Continents, formerly Bass, gained 15.5p to 534p. Scottish & Newcastle gained 11.25p to 415.25p on news of the closure of a brewery in Newcastle. Cable & Wireless gained 2.75p to 122.25p on news analysts at ING Financial Markets have raised their recommendation on hopes new management will be more open with shareholders. Abbey...
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