NHS software company iSoft today conceded that talks about the future ownership of the firm were taking longer than expected to conclude.

Profit taking and weaker metal prices caused the mining sector to drag on the London market today, while fading hopes of a bid battle for supermarket giant Sainsbury did little to cheer investors.

Weak performance from the mining sector and fading hopes of a takeover tussle for supermarket giant Sainsbury weighed heavy on the London market today.

Speculation over the future ownership of NHS software company iSoft took another twist today as it emerged that an Australian software firm was in talks over a potential offer.