Shares in British banks were broadly up on the FTSE 100 in morning trading ahead of key jobs data from the U.S.

It is estimated that the data could see a gain of 185,000 jobs in February, although some optimists are predicting an increase of as much as 200,000.

By 10:00 shares in Lloyds Banking Group were up 0.92 per cent to 63.46 pence per share, RBS shares rose 0.76 per cent to 45.00 pence per share and Barclays shares increased 1.32 per cent to 319.15 pence per share.

However HSBC shares declined 0.08 per cent to 662.20 pence per share.

Overall the FTSE 100 was up 0.60 per cent to 6,041.10.

Barclays HSBC FTSE