1.   Fast-growing states like Florida, Texas and Arizona expect sharper increases.

2.   Schroeder, who sits on the supervisory board of Volkswagen, has balked at a sharper increase demanded by the Greens.

3.   The fines were increased earlier this year when the Environment Ministry noted a sharper increase in mosquito-borne diseases.

4.   The Swiss currency has shown even sharper increases in previous years.

5.   Sterling remained weak after the announcement of a sharper increase than expected in April bank lending.