FTSE 100 Live: London stocks flat as defence rally offset by commodities falls

London stocks drift as a defence-led rally struggles to offset declines in utilities, oil, and miners. The FTSE 100 opened slightly higher before trading around 10,490.5, down about four points. Rolls-Royce led the defence and aerospace group higher for a second day, while National Grid, Vodafone, BAT, BP, Rio Tinto and Shell traded weaker. AO World announced plans to return £20 million to shareholders after strong cash generation, with adjusted PBT up 16.1% to £50.5 million and net funds of £16.4 million. PZ Cussons lifted its revenue outlook to about £540 million; inflation commentary from economists suggested the BoE is likely to keep rates unchanged after May CPI.