FTSE closes above 6000 mark

The London market closed above the psychologically key 6000 barrier for the first time since February today thanks to strong gains in the mining sector and hopes of another cut in interest rates.

The FTSE 100 Index rose 67.7 points to close at 6014.8 as investors started the week in a positive mood, with expectations mounting for a quarter point cut in rates to 5% when the Bank of England announces its latest decision on Thursday.