Announcements
June retail sales figures
The value of retail sales for June 2003, under the classification of
pharmaceutical sales, was up seven points at 136. The retail sales
value for the second quarter was up four points at 132.
The classification of the retail sale of pharmaceutical, medical, cosmetic
and toilet goods excludes National Health Service receipts. The figures
are based on returns made by a number of large retail pharmacy chains,
but exclude Boots The Chemists Ltd, which is classified under non-specialised
retail stores. The figures are compiled by the Office for National Statistics.
Banknote withdrawal
The Bank of England has announced that the older style £5 notes
featuring George Stephenson are being withdrawn from circulation and
will no longer be legal tender after 21 November. The new style £5
note, featuring Elizabeth Fry and enhanced security features, remains
in circulation. Details at
www.bankofengland.co.uk. |
