Asian stock markets also down
Asian markets took a tumble overnight as the price of crude oil continued to sink.
London shares rose slightly in early trading, with markets still affected by weaker than expected US jobs data.
In London, share prices moved upwards as markets opened this morning, though the index is volatile following signs of economic weakness in the US.
The FTSE has tumbled 0.76% this morning, as the markets reacted to suggestions the US Federal Reserve is preparing to remove stimulus measures.
London trading got off to a positive start after the FTSE 100 rose above the psychologically important 5,000 points barrier yesterday.
The FTSE 100 has bounced back over 4,700 for the first time since opening this week, with mining stocks at the forefront of today's strong gains.
London shares fell back slightly this morning as investors await the latest set of economic figures.
A ratings upgrade from Citigroup helped Schroders to a healthy gain early on Thursday, but the FTSE remains largely unmoved following yesterday's impressive gains.
London saw shares fall in early trading, with the FTSE 100 down 35.77 points (0.82%) to 4,304.94 as investors exercise caution ahead of key US employment data.