European shares were flat at the open on Wednesday as losses in healthcare stocks limited gains, while UK shares came under pressure after the latest UK inflation data.
The pan-European STOXX 600 index was flat at 515.25 points by 0711 GMT, with the healthcare sector among the biggest decliners, down 0.5%.
On the other hand, the travel and leisure sector index rose 0.7%, supported by a 2.3% rise in Accor shares.
Meanwhile, British inflation data showed that inflation in Britain returned to the target rate of 2% in May for the first time in almost three years. The British Financial Times index fell 0.2% in the latest trading.
SMA Solar Technology shares plunged 29% after the German solar power plant parts supplier cut its profit forecast, citing political uncertainty.
Trading is expected to be thin with US traders absent as markets in the US are closed for a public holiday.
