41.   A monthly index of regional manufacturing activity fell during February, suggesting Midwest manufacturers continued to pare production.

42.   A monthly index of regional manufacturing activity rose in April, suggesting Midwestern manufacturers may be poised for a second-quarter rebound.

43.   A monthly index of regional manufacturing activity signalled that Midwestern manufacturers continued to step up production this month.

44.   A private industry survey released earlier this month also suggested manufacturing activity remains subdued.

45.   A report released last week said the outlook for U.S. manufacturing activity improved in December as factories geared up to replenish inventories.

46.   A report showing weaker-than-expected U.S. manufacturing activity suggested that economic growth has slowed enough for the Federal Reserve to lower interest rates this year.

47.   A report released in the U.S. yesterday showed a decline in manufacturing activity and buoyed hopes of a cut in U.S. interest rates before Christmas.

48.   A report showing weaker-than-expected U.S. manufacturing activity fueled expectations that U.S. interest rates will be cut soon and stimulate consumer spending.

49.   A report today on the strength of U.S. manufacturing activity sent mixed signals on the direction of interest rates.

50.   A separate report released today suggested U.S. manufacturing activity rebounded in April following the end of a strike against General Motors Corp.