Shares in British banks were broadly up on the FTSE 100 in morning trading after France promised action aimed at putting off a Greek default.

Yesterday French banks agreed to roll over Greek debt just as the Greek Parliament began debating austerity measures that the country must adopt if it is to receive bailout money from the European Union and the International Monetary Fund.

The measures appear to be extremely unpopular in Greece, which has seen countless strikes and protests against in response to the measures.

By 09:45 shares in Lloyds Banking Group were up 1.42 per cent to 44.01 pence per share, RBS shares climbed 2.59 per cent to 36.00 pence per share and Barclays shares rose 1.83 per cent to 241.90 pence per share.

However HSBC saw its shares decline 0.03 per cent to 606.00 pence per share.

Overall the FTSE 100 was up 0.78 per cent to 5,767.06.

Barclays HSBC FTSE European Union