The FTSE 100 index of leading UK company shares finished the week at 6,557.17, closing up 14.73 (+0.23%) on the day and up 29.28 points or 0.45% over the week.
Mining stocks rose on news of stimulus measures in China but insurance stocks continued to struggle following reforms announced by the Chancellor in his Budget earlier this week.
With the mining sector representing nearly 10% of the FTSE 100 index, the health of China and its demand for precious metals is a key factor in the value of UK stocks.
Over a year the FTSE 100 has fallen from 6,388.50, a rise of 168.67 points or 2.64%.
£1 is worth $1.64930 US or €1.19580 Euros.
Brent Crude Oil Futures is currently priced at $106.94/barrel. Gold is $1,336.00/ounce and Silver is $20.55/ounce.
The UK Bank Rate is 0.5% and CPI inflation was 1.9% for the year to January 2014.
