FTSE 100 LIVE: Stocks Rise as Starmer Faces MPs After Chief of Staff Resigns

On 9 February 2026, London’s FTSE 100 opened stronger even as UK politics entered a turbulent phase. The benchmark stock index edged higher in early trading, lifted by gains in key sectors and positive global cues. At the same time, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer faced pressure from his own MPs after his most senior aide, chief of staff Morgan McSweeney, resigned amid controversy over a high‑profile appointment.