But it will take more than a handful of firms to change the British consumer mentality, says Vincent-Wayne Mitchell, professor of consumer marketing at the Cass Business School, City University London.

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The bureau, based at London's City University, is an independent body and a not-for-profit operation.

BBC: Profile: Bureau of Investigative Journalism

"He seemed very grateful for the hospitality of the embassy, " said McFayden, director of the Center for Investigative Journalism at London's City University.

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Professor Susan Golombok, director of the Family and Child Psychology Research Centre at City University in London, explained why families with IVF children might be more stable and contented.

BBC: Donor sperm children 'kept in dark'

In the business-school market, London Business School and City University London's Cass Business School both launched executive M.

WSJ: In Abu Dhabi, a B-School's Program Goes Adrift

Money from the David and Elaine Potter Foundation is funding the Bureau of Investigative Journalism (BIJ), based at City University in London.

ECONOMIST: Philanthro-journalism

"Given that these are two hugely high-profile companies with a great deal of money, they will dig deep to try and be the last man standing, " said Roy Greenslade, professor of journalism at City University in London, in published reports.

FORBES: Magazine Article

Hobsbawm, who was recently appointed visiting professor in networking at Cass Business School, at City University, London, says in an increasingly global workforce, workers cannot afford to ignore the competitive edge it can give.

CNN: Professor of networking on the power of schmoozing

According to Roger Wallis of London's City University Business School, Europe's collecting societies work rather like the postal system: one price for all destinations, one administrative charge for everybody.

ECONOMIST: He who pays the piper