Retailers top fallers list on London index

The FTSE 100 remained in the red at the close of business today, with retail giants heading the list of fallers.

Two supermarkets both recorded losses, with Morrison''s falling by 16.50 points to close at 253.75 pence per share.

This is the most the retailer is thought to have fallen in nearly four years trading on the London exchange.

Morrison''s Chief executive, Mark Bolland, told Bloomberg that he expects "a tough second-half that''s going to be very competitive".

Sainsbury''s share price also fell, losing 21.75 points to 345.25 pence per share.

This follows soaring share prices last month amid speculation that Britain''s third-biggest supermarket could soon be courted with a takeover bid by the Qatari Investment Authority (QIA).

European home retailer Kingfisher also recorded a loss, falling by 7.40 points or 5.38 per cent to close at 130.1 pence per share.

Anglo American, gaining 113 points, and BG Group, which rose by 4.27 per cent to close at 1,100 pence per share, were the day''s biggest gainers.