He also insists on its remaining a chemicals company, and one that continues to manufacture its products in Germany in spite of the high costs and strict environmental regulations.

ECONOMIST: The chemicals business

The city boasts a high recycling rate and strict green building standards.

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It was a particularly foolish idea for an economy that, thanks to decades of high oil prices and strict regulation, already boasts manufacturers that are among the most efficient in the world in carbon emissions per unit of production.

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The waltz is sacred to Viennese high society, and rules are so strict that if you want to take part in any of the exclusive opening balls, a mastery of the Viennese waltz reverse turn (which for non-dance folk means, basically, to the left) is required by all ball committees.

BBC: Finding your rhythm in Vienna

Since the ECB has a strict remit to maintain price stability, its dread of high inflation is greater than its fear of recession: hence the rate rise.

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Because legal projects tend to require small, high-calibre teams, and because of those strict conflict-of-interest rules, even the biggest law firms are tiny in comparison with their accounting cousins.

ECONOMIST: Accountants and lawyers

Following a High Court ruling the GMC has allowed the surgeon to return to work, but under strict conditions.

BBC: Genital photo surgeon Erik Scholten has suspension lifted

Strict regulations have preserved its village-like layout and architectural treasures, and have ensured an almost total absence of high-rises.

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