China's growth beats forecasts - papers

The Chinese economy grew a faster-than-expected 9.7% in Q1 and its inflation rose to the highest level in almost three years despite government attempts to slow surging growth.

China's gross domestic product increased 9.7% in the first quarter from a year earlier the government said on Friday, down slightly from 9.8% growth in the fourth quarter of 2010, but still faster than most economists had predicted. MORE Glencore's plans for a $60bn (£37bn) flotation have been clouded by controversy after shareholders raised fears about disclosure at the commodities giant and criticised its approach to corporate governance. MORE Gordon Brown is being tipped to take on a lucrative advisory role at the World Economic Forum (WEF), the influential body which holds meeting...