FTSE 100 up 0.2, FTSE 250 up 0.1

Sept 3 Reuters A recovery in aerospace and defence stocks lifted UK39;s main index on Tuesday, while investors braced themselves for a slew of global key economic data that could shape bets on the pace of potential rate cuts from major central banks this month.

The bluechip FTSE 100 index was up 0.2 as of 0715 GMT, after kicking off September on a dull note, while the domesticallyfocused midcap FTSE 250  edged up 0.1.

RollsRoyce rose over 3, after Monday39;s steep losses, as Hong Kong39;s Cathay Pacific Airways noted that the three of the 48 British engine supplier39;s planes under inspection went through successful repairs and all of the jets were expected to resume operation by Saturday.

This boosted the aerospace and defence index rose nearly 2, after logging its steepest oneday decline since November 2022 on Monday.

Watches Of Switzerland Group jumped 6 after the company said it39;s on track to deliver its fullyear forecast.

Ashtead Group climbed 3.4 after the equipment rental company said it expects fullyear results in line with previous expectations, while Hikma Pharmaceuticals rose 2 after Berenberg upgraded the British drugmaker39;s shares to buy from hold.

Meanwhile, miners were the worst hit, tracking weak base metal prices.

All eyes are on this month39;s monetary policy decisions by some of the most influential central banks the U.S. Federal Reserve, the European Central Bank and the Bank of England.

As both the Fed…