Christmas won't be a blockbuster. Retailers are concentrating on getting as much sold at full price and have managed their stock better.

The problem with these delays is you can't go ahead with the merger plans straight away. It's a very difficult situation. It probably means the share price will slightly be on hold.

Shell is such a long turnaround story that BP looks a less risky bet.

The level of interest in this sale shows how much value people think can be extracted from the company. Someone may wait for the sale to go through and strengthen the balance sheet and then make a play.

It's encouraging to get the turnaround at a time when the high street is very depressed.

He has done a pretty good job. It looks as though the product has got acceptance from people both on the clothing side and on the food side.

Splitting it into two units will create a more efficient and manageable structure. It will allow the company to focus on specific sectors and target growth areas.