Output in the French privat e sector fell at a slower pace in April. The Markit Flash France Composite Output Index , based on around 85% of normal monthly survey replies, climbed from March’s four- year low of 41.9, to 44.2, its highest reading in 2013 so far. Weaker declines in output were signalled in both the manufacturing and service sectors during April. Manufacturers reported the slowest fall in production since last August, while service providers indicated the least marked reduction in activity in four months. The slower fall in overall activity mirrored an easing in the rate of contraction of new business ... (full story)