71.   And the figures have not lessened the chances that the Federal Reserve will act shortly to raise short-term interest rates further to forestall an inflationary surge.

72.   And the police statement issued later that day appeared to lessen the chances of the governing body taking action.

73.   The result also lessened the chance of the first Yugoslavia-Croatia match since the breakup of their common homeland and the war that followed.

74.   Tanks and long-range artillery had been moved in, diplomats said, adding the heightened tension could lessen the chances of new mediations attempts to be led by France.

75.   That lessened the chances of a hostile takeover bid against Lonrho.