The latest flash PMI data signalled that France ’ s private sector remained in contraction at the start of the third quarter. Output was down for the third month in succession, although the rate of decline eased to a marginal pace that was the weakest in t hat sequence. After accounting for seasonal factors, t he Markit Flash France Composite Output Index , based on around 85% of normal monthly survey replies, posted 49.4 , u p from 48.1 in June . D riving the headline index higher was an improvement in the performance of the French service sector . Activity there increased for the first time in three months, albeit ... (full story)