The FTSE 100 Index struggled to make headway today as worries over the impact of an alleged 50 billion US dollar (£33 billion) Wall Street fraud weighed on the market.

A recovery in mining stocks helped lift share prices in London into the black today after a mixed session for traders.

Progress by heavyweight oil stocks helped put the FTSE 100 Index on course for a positive end to the week today.

British Gas group Centrica today signalled household bills may have to rise for a second time this year as it battles against rising energy costs.

Gas users in Northern Ireland were furious today at an expected price rise of up to 20%.