21.   The pound slipped soon after the announcement, though traders said the decline was likely to be muted because the rate reduction had been expected.

22.   Three of six UN battalions once assigned to the region have been withdrawn, and further reductions are expected before the end of this year.

23.   Traders had predicted any decline was likely to be muted because the rate reduction had been expected.

24.   Analysts attributed the lukewarm reaction to the fact the reduction was expected, as well as broader concerns about still-weak business conditions.

25.   Foreign lending agencies already have warned Vietnam to expect a reduction in the amount of aid it receives.

26.   He said no further reductions are expected now.

27.   Hercules expects reductions in all business divisions and functions worldwide.

28.   In a letter to Marina Administrator Pio H. Garrido Jr., Lichauco said the trade and industry sectors were reportedly expecting reductions in transportation fares and cargo rates.

29.   In currency trading, dealers said the cut in U.S. interest rates also had little impact on the peso market, which had long expected a reduction.

30.   Scientists expect a reduction in the ozone over the Antarctic each September.