Around the World's Markets: London

A VOLATILE session left Footsie just 3.5 points lower at 6,074.9; at one time it was down 71.3. A firm New York opening and satisfaction with results from Halifax and Glaxo Wellcome helped the rally. Supporting shares ended lower.

British Aerospace was the centre of attention over stories that Saudi Arabia had asked for the crucial Al Yamamah contract to be put on a care and maintenance basis. The rumour was denied, but BAe fell 18p to 412p, dragging General Electric Co down 11.5p to 515.5p.

Derek Pain, page 21