FTSE 100 moved higher on the good vaccine news yesterday and the round of UK lockdown easing measures confirmed last night by the prime minister. The blue-chip index added 38 to 6,372.
Not everyone was happy with new tiered lockdown system and Boris Johnson was accused of killing Christmas rather than saving it by some pub, restaurant and hotel owners. They are angry that outlets in a Tier-2 lockdown region must serve a substantial meal with any drinks while pubs in Tier-3 can only serve takeaways.
Some relief for airlines as people arriving in England will be soon be able to pay for a COVID-19 test to cut their 14-day quarantine period. The rules come into force from 15 December with a test costing between £65 and £120.
Pork products group Cranswick PLC (LON:CWK) said demand for bacon and sausages had soared as it gave an insight into people’s lockdown habits. Half -year revenues jumped 21% as cooked breakfasts reappeared on household menus.
Among the small caps, Zoetic International PLC (LON:ZOE) signed a landmark agreement with the Asian America Trade Association. It will bring its Chill brand of CBD products to tens of thousands of US stores.
Block Energy PLC (LON:BLOE) has now completed the acquisition of Schlumberger Rustaveli. The deal significantly increases production and provides exploration opportunities in Georgia.
Bezant Resources PLC (LON:BZT) has found copper mineralisation in the first two holes in its drill programme at the Hope copper-gold Project in Namibia. Samples will be tested to evaluate for copper, gold and other associated minerals.
