Norris, the general manager, has denied speculation that sponsors are looking to bail out.

Pakistan officials, who deny such speculation, say they are monitoring the cleric situation closely.

He denied speculation that changes would be resisted.

Today's announcement surprised many analysts, because both companies had denied speculation last week that the deal was unraveling.

Keenan has denied widespread speculation in the last week that he is about to leave, perhaps for a job with more power elsewhere.

He denied speculation, though, that he has considered a political career.

He denied widespread speculation that Beijing officials had demanded his resignation.

His office denied speculation that he was being treated for alcoholism.

Mr. Lynch has denied such speculation, but not discouraged it.

He denied speculation that there were any preparations for such a move, saying it would take years to organise a withdrawal from the single currency.