The U.K. Office for National Statistics released its labour market data. The unemployment rate in the U.K. fell to 6.2% in July from 6.4% in June, beating expectations for a decline to 6.3%. That was the lowest level since late 2008.

The claimant count declined by 37,200 people in August, exceeding expectations for a drop of 29,700 people, after a decrease of 37,400 people in July. July's figure was revised up from a fall of 33,600 people.

The average earnings index including bonuses increased 0.6% in the three months to July, beating forecast of a 0.5% rise, after a 0.1% decline in the three months to June. June's figure was revised up from a 0.2% drop.

The average earnings index excluding bonuses climbed 0.7% in the three months to July, after a 0.7% gain in the three months to June. June's figure was revised up from a 0.6% increase.