For instance, even though retail sales and industrial production data in July were higher than consensus expectations, the previous values were revised lower.

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However, he reiterated Mr Brown's previous comment that "British laws must be based on British values and that religious law, while respecting other cultures, should be subservient to British criminal and civil law".

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He attacked the bank's increasingly aggressive work culture of the previous 20 years, which, he said, focused too much on making a quick buck instead of upholding the values and long-term reputation of the bank.

BBC: Barclays boss tells staff 'sign up to ethics or leave'