Stock indices closed higher on comments by the European Central Bank (ECB) Vice President Vitor Constancio. He said on Wednesday that the ECB could buy government bonds early next year if the central bank decides to add new stimulus measures.

Constancio added that the decision to buy government bonds will send an important signal the central bank is willing to achieve its 2% inflation target.

The U.K. revised GDP climbed by 0.7% in the third quarter, in line with expectations.

On a yearly basis, the U.K. GDP gained 3.0% in the third quarter, in line with expectations.

Seadrill Ltd. shares dropped 18% after the company suspended dividends due to falling oil prices.

Thomas Cook Group Plc shares fell 18% after reporting the weaker-than-estimated profit.

Indexes on the close:

Name Price Change Change %

FTSE 100 6,729.17 -1.97 -0.03%

DAX 9,915.56 +54.35 +0.55%

CAC 40 4,373.42 -8.89 -0.20%