Buoyant FTSE shrugs off euro debt worries

London's leading share index is up nearly 1% today despite concerns over the European debt situation.

Shortly after 3.30pm, the FTSE was up 0.89%, or 49 points, to 5,598 with BP and ARM Holdings leading the upward charge. The positive showing comes despite concerns centring on Ireland after figures revealed manufacturing activity in the country contracted in September. Manufacturing figures in the UK, meanwhile, suggested subdued growth going forward. The Markit/Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply manufacturing PMI index fell to 53.4 in September from 53.7 the previous month, suggesting growth figures for the third quarter will be muted. Despite the gloom, there was some p...