1.  Undoubtedly British official statistics would have advanced more rapidly, particularly in the use of sampling techniques, if Bowley had had more to do with them.

2.  However, London brokers said shares were underpinned later in the day by British economic statistics indicating that the risk of inflation remains weak.

3.  Dealers in London were also waiting for several British economic statistics due out on Wednesday, notably on inflation, unemployment and retail sales.

4.  They said a set of disappointing British economic statistics released early on Wednesday also weighed down on sentiment.

5.  Traders said volume was on the low side due to the absence of important company news and of British economic statistics.

6.  Next week promises to be more active on the domestic front, with British statistics due out on inflation, unemployment and the public deficit in February.

7.  Shares firmed in London and Paris in early trading Monday, encouraged by British statistics showing a reduction of inflationary pressures and by healthy futures prices, dealers said.

8.  The market was awaiting publication this week of a series of important British economic statistics, and notably those for inflation and unemployment.