The FTSE 100 edged higher on Thursday after gaining 0.6% in the previous session, though it underperformed other European markets as several major stocks traded ex-dividend, weighing on the index. Political developments also remained in focus, with leadership uncertainty increasing after Wes Streeting resigned as Keir Starmer’s health secretary, fuelling speculation about a possible challenge to the prime minister. National Grid gained more than 1% after pledging at least