Energy stocks boost FTSE

Utility companies kept the FTSE steady with Scottish & Southern Energy posting the biggest gains with a rise of 3.39% to £14.65, closely followed by Drax which climbed 3.37% to 735.5p. Smiths Group also advanced 2.47% to 310.38, while Tesco added 2.07% to 431.75p, and Severn Trent climbed 1.98% to £13.89, although British Land declined 1.62% to £14.59. Insurance companies were among the biggest losers with Standard Life falling 2.35% to 291.5p, closely followed by Friends Provident which slipped 1.97% to 198.75p, while DSG International fell 2.02% to 170p, and Tate & Lyle dropped 1.54% ...