LONDON (AFX) - The UK construction sector rose in December while optimism over prospects for the next 12 months reached its highest level since June of 1999, according to the latest survey of the sector from the Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply. The CIPS reported that its headline activity index stood at 55.5 in December, compared with 54.3 in November. The following table provides a breakdown of the results of the survey. A reading above 50 signals expansion, below it contraction. The greater the divergence the more rapid the rate of change.