Trading is expected to be very thin, however, as U.S. markets will be closed on Friday ahead of Independence Day.

The UK blue chip index ended 106.44 points lower on Thursday at 4,234.27, sliding sharply in tandem with a plunge on Wall Street after the U.S. jobs report showed non-farm payrolls falling by more than expected in June.

In the absence of much else, investors will look to the June UK service sector PMI, scheduled for release at 9:28 a.m. to provide some direction.

UK stocks to watch on Friday are:

RIO TINTO

Underwriters to global miner Rio Tinto rights issue have sold the Australian "rump" at A$48.50 each, a 6.3 percent discount to Rio's last traded price, Rio said in a statement on Friday.

BHP BILLITON

The world's biggest miner, has agreed to sell its Yabulu nickel refinery to Australian mining magnate Clive Palmer for an undisclosed amount, BHP said in a statement on Friday.

TESCO

The largest retailer in Britain is set to face strong opposition to its planned share option scheme changes at its annual general meeting on Friday, the Financial Times said.

Also, Tesco is expected to face protests over its treatment of migrant workers at the meeting, being held in Glasgow, The Independent said.

MITCHELLS & BUTLERS

The pubs and bars operator will offer its two biggest shareholders, billionaire Joe Lewis and Elpida, the investment vehicle for tycoons JP McManus and John Magnier, board representation in an attempt to head off a potential rebellion, the Financial Times said.

BRITISH SKY BROADCASTING

The satellite broadcaster and ESPN of the U.S. are soon expected to announce a joint bid to screen the next four years of Scottish Premier League football matches, The Independent said.

BRITISH AIRWAYS

The airline delivers June passenger traffic numbers.

BALFOUR BEATTY

The contractor issues a first-half trading update.

FINDEL

The home shopping firm holds its annual general meeting.

BIG YELLOW GROUP

The self-storage company holds its annual general meeting.

RENEWABLE ENERGY GENERATION

The alternative energy firm holds its annual general meeting.

(Reporting by Jon Hopkins)