71.   The improved figures were due to higher electricity output and a more steady decrease in manufacturing output.

72.   The U.S. revision was prompted by signs that consumer spending and manufacturing output are weaker than expected.

73.   In addition, the mood was not helped by the latest data showing a very weak rise in British manufacturing output.

74.   It pointed to French manufacturing output as another sign, in addition to those from the Bank of France, of recovery.

75.   A rise in key manufacturing output in April after two straight months of decline failed to lift sentiment as the improvement was already projected, dealers said.

76.   Analysts said the pound was helped by UK manufacturing output figures announced Thursday morning, which make British interest rate cuts appear more remote.

77.   But on the other, the decrease in manufacturing output in May for the second consecutive month indicated a slow-down in economic growth.

78.   Evidence has piled up in recent months that economic growth in Britain is weakening, with an unexpected fall in manufacturing output in September causing much concern.

79.   The ministry is forecasting growth this year of around five percent for export orders and manufacturing output.

80.   The pound did not benefit from a slightly higher-than-expected rise in British manufacturing output in the month of October.