BP results unlikely to lift gloom in share market

EARNINGS from oil giant BP could provide an anchor for Britain's volatile share market this week, but investors said war jitters and economic worries give little hope of a sustained rally in the short-term.

BP is one of a dozen blue-chip companies due to report results, and investors said although most should lend support, some could confirm tough times.

Full-year results from two of Britain's big four banks Barclays and Lloyds TSB will do little to dispel the gloom, with both set to report a fall in annual profits in the shadow of rising bad debts.