51.   Their economies are pegged to the strong French franc, which regards the U.S. dollar with disdain.

52.   This commitment to a strong franc demands the currency shadow the mark both as an anti-inflation tool and as a condition to join EMU.

53.   UBS also said the Swiss National Bank has room to cut interest rates because of slow growth and the strong franc.

54.   A strong franc means that earnings on foreign markets are worth less in the Swiss currency.

55.   It predicted that economic recovery in the West and growing demand in Asian markets would more than offset disadvantages due to the strong franc.

56.   Official forecasts estimate there will be a slowdown in exports because of the strong franc, but not enough to endanger the economy.

57.   Since taking office last Wednesday, Chirac has sought to allay doubts about his commitment to the strong franc policy.

58.   Swiss companies have complained repeatedly that the strong franc has made exports too expensive.

59.   The council has also suffered because of the very strong Swiss franc, which makes contributions in other currencies worth less when converted.

60.   The franc began to recover early Friday after Chirac promised to maintain a strong franc and an independent Bank of France.