London stocks muted ahead of British inflation data

UK shares were subdued in early trade on Tuesday dragged down by energy stocks, while investors awaited a crucial inflation data as they assessed the prospect of a global economic slowdown.

The resource-heavy FTSE 100 slipped 0.1% as of 0715 GMT, with energy stocks shedding 0.6% tracking lower crude oil prices.

Domestically-focused FTSE 250 midcap index was up 0.1%.

Markets are focused on the Purchasing Managers Index (PMI) for May, due at 0830 GMT, a day after British retail sales growth slowed to a seven-month low during the same month.

Automobile and personal goods stocks were the top gainers, while shares of beverages were the worst hit.

British American Tobacco (LON:BATS) led gains on the FTSE 100, up 1.1%, after the company maintained its annual revenue and profit forecasts.