UK FTSE 100 falls as construction sector shrinks despite WPP and Diageo gains

The FTSE 100 fell 0.2% on Thursday despite strong results from WPP and Diageo, as UK construction data showed continued contraction. The S&P Global UK construction PMI rose to 44.7 in July from 38.4 in June, its highest in four months but still below the 50 threshold for a seventh month. The FTSE 250 closed at a record high. European retail sales fell 0.3% in June, weaker than expected. Siemens dropped 4.5% after guidance disappointed. Investors await Friday's US jobs report.