But other economists disputed the idea that the report, though somewhat weaker on its face than expected, pointed to diminished activity in the nation's factories.

But most economists disputed that notion, and said the retailing figures were clearly quite poor.

But at least some outside economists disputed that conclusion on several grounds.

Some economists also dispute contentions that China is unwise to invest so heavily in dollar assets.

But some economists dispute this, pointing out that most companies respond to shorter weeks by adding extra shifts and overtime.

Few economists dispute that the index shows that the economy is slowing, but opinions are mixed on whether the numbers point to a recession.

Some economists dispute this point, claiming that expenditure ran up to today's critical amount from 2001, during two left-wing government cycles.

But Western economists and agricultural experts, in recent interviews, disputed the Government's wheat-production estimates.

Other economists at the convention disputed the projections that rising health-care costs would require such a big increase in taxes to hold down the deficit.

No rational economist or sociologist will dispute this.