The main index added 0.2%, with gains led by more internationally exposed firms such as BAT and AstraZeneca. The more domestically-focussed FTSE 250  slipped 0.3% by 0709 GMT.

The mid-cap index was also pulled lower by a more than 17% slump in Amigo Holdings after the consumer credit provider posted lower adjusted pre-tax profit for the first quarter and cut its annual forecast.