Gold has hit yet another record high, pushing through $1,150 an ounce as the dollar continues to weaken.
The rise in the precious metal came after stronger than expected US consumer price figures, which prompted concerns about inflationary pressures in the world's largest economy and consequently sent the US currency on the slide again. The consumer price index rose 0.3%, compared to expectations of a 0.2% increase, fueled mainly by higher energy and motor vehicle costs.
With base metals also moving higher the mining sector is supporting the stock market at the moment.
Silver specialist Fresnillo added 49.5p to 926p, while Lonmin was lifted 62p to £17.45 and Xstrata was up 35p to £11.10. Randgold Resources rose 94p to £50.
