British consumers defy weaker outlook for economy

By David Milliken and Ana Nicolaci da Costa LONDON (Reuters) - British consumers are still driving the country's recovery despite a gloomier outlook for the economy and the approach of the European Union membership referendum, figures released on Thursday showed. Official data showed retail sales fell more gently than expected in February after a bumper January. A separate survey by the Confederation of British Industry showed sales volumes fell slightly in March but retailers were optimistic ab