- AHOLD 7,190 1,123 10.01

<response> - <organization>AHOLD</organization> 7,190 1,123 10.01 </response>


- BOLSWESSANEN 4,420 705 6.17

<response> - <organization>BOLSWESSANEN</organization> 4,420 705 6.17 </response>


- ABN AMRO 3,003 1,940 5.95

<response> - <organization>ABN AMRO</organization> 3,003 1,940 5.95 </response>


- ING 3,853 673 5.45

<response> - <organization>ING</organization> 3,853 673 5.45 </response>


- VNU 3,060 843 4.70

<response> - <organization>VNU</organization> 3,060 843 4.70 </response>


-- Amsterdam newsdesk +31 20 504 5000 ( Fax 020-504-5040 )

<response> -- <location>Amsterdam</location> newsdesk +31 20 504 5000 ( Fax 020-504-5040 ) </response>


French tax office sucks in money .

<response> <misc>French</misc> tax office sucks in money . </response>


PARIS 1996-08-28

<response> <location>PARIS</location> 1996-08-28 </response>


Workers fixing the ceiling of a tax office in Paris found a dozen seven-year-old cheques for a total of six million francs ( $ 1.2 million ) in a ventilation pipe , the weekly Le Canard Enchaine said on Wednesday .

<response> Workers fixing the ceiling of a tax office in <location>Paris</location> found a dozen seven-year-old cheques for a total of six million francs ( $ 1.2 million ) in a ventilation pipe , the weekly <organization>Le Canard Enchaine</organization> said on Wednesday . </response>


A Finance Ministry official explained that the cheques for corporate tax payments had been sucked into the ventilation system , the weekly reported .

<response> A <organization>Finance Ministry</organization> official explained that the cheques for corporate tax payments had been sucked into the ventilation system , the weekly reported . </response>


<response> The companies had been contacted at the time and had not been fined for failing to pay , the official said . </response>


Swiss bond market closing report .

<response> <misc>Swiss</misc> bond market closing report . </response>


ZURICH 1996-08-28

<response> <location>ZURICH</location> 1996-08-28 </response>


Swiss bonds ended mostly higher in generally quiet activity , with the September confederate bond futures contract holding just above 113.00 .

<response> <misc>Swiss</misc> bonds ended mostly higher in generally quiet activity , with the September confederate bond futures contract holding just above 113.00 . </response>


" Today was very quiet after a lot of activity on Tuesday , " said one Swiss bond futures trader .

<response> " Today was very quiet after a lot of activity on Tuesday , " said one <misc>Swiss</misc> bond futures trader . </response>


<response> He said the market began strong , gave up some gains at midday and then was able to recover back at the close , but all on light volume . </response>


In the primary market , Eksportfinans and Suedwest LB launched issues for 100 million and 300 million Swiss francs , respectively .

<response> In the primary market , <organization>Eksportfinans</organization> and <organization>Suedwest LB</organization> launched issues for 100 million and 300 million <misc>Swiss</misc> francs , respectively . </response>


Eksportfinans ' seven-year issue was quoted at a yield of 3.98 percent , and Suedwest LB 's five-year issue was quoted at 3.60 percent .

<response> <organization>Eksportfinans</organization> ' seven-year issue was quoted at a yield of 3.98 percent , and <organization>Suedwest LB</organization> 's five-year issue was quoted at 3.60 percent . </response>


Swiss money market rates remained lower at around 1.75 percent offered .

<response> <misc>Swiss</misc> money market rates remained lower at around 1.75 percent offered . </response>


As to fundamentals , economists at Credit Suisse said they expect the country 's gross domestic product to be flat to negative in 1996 , and to grow only 0.6 percent in 1997 .

<response> As to fundamentals , economists at <organization>Credit Suisse</organization> said they expect the country 's gross domestic product to be flat to negative in 1996 , and to grow only 0.6 percent in 1997 . </response>


The Swiss government also said Wednesday it had made progress in cutting Switzerland 's projected spending for 1997 .

<response> The <misc>Swiss</misc> government also said Wednesday it had made progress in cutting <location>Switzerland</location> 's projected spending for 1997 . </response>


Switzerland reports July consumer prices later this week .

<response> <location>Switzerland</location> reports July consumer prices later this week . </response>


Closing prices as follows :

<response> Closing prices as follows : </response>


Sept conf bond up 12 at 113.02 .

<response> Sept conf bond up 12 at 113.02 . </response>


<response> Sept comi medium-term bond up three at 109.45 . </response>


Sept Euro Swiss francs up three at 97.82 .

<response> Sept <misc>Euro Swiss</misc> francs up three at 97.82 . </response>


-- Cash :


<response> 4-1/2 Apr 2006 bond 101.80 / 90 yield 4.252 pct </response>


-- Zurich Editorial , +41 1 631 7340

<response> -- <organization>Zurich Editorial</organization> , +41 1 631 7340 </response>


Anti-Bhutto rally draws about 8,000 in Karachi .

<response> <misc>Anti-Bhutto</misc> rally draws about 8,000 in <location>Karachi</location> . </response>


KARACHI , Pakistan 1996-08-28

<response> <location>KARACHI</location> , <location>Pakistan</location> 1996-08-28 </response>


About 8,000 protesters marched through Karachi on Wednesday demanding the removal of Pakistani Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto , witnesses said .

<response> About 8,000 protesters marched through <location>Karachi</location> on Wednesday demanding the removal of <misc>Pakistani</misc> Prime Minister <person>Benazir Bhutto</person> , witnesses said . </response>


" From here we will march to Islamabad and by God we will not let Benazir and ( Bhutto 's husband Asif Ali ) Zardari escape justice , " Nawaz Sharif , leader of the main opposition Pakistan Muslim League told a rally organised by a 16-party alliance .

<response> " From here we will march to <location>Islamabad</location> and by <person>God</person> we will not let <person>Benazir</person> and ( <person>Bhutto</person> 's husband <person>Asif Ali</person> ) <person>Zardari</person> escape justice , " <person>Nawaz Sharif</person> , leader of the main opposition <organization>Pakistan Muslim League</organization> told a rally organised by a 16-party alliance . </response>


Sharif accused Bhutto of corruption and nepotism , charges she has denied in the past .

<response> <person>Sharif</person> accused <person>Bhutto</person> of corruption and nepotism , charges she has denied in the past . </response>


<response> Witnesses said protesters carrying colourful party flags walked for several miles , chanting anti-government slogans . </response>


The event was part of an opposition campaign launched on August 14 , Pakistan 's independence day .

<response> The event was part of an opposition campaign launched on August 14 , <location>Pakistan</location> 's independence day . </response>


Sharif said similar rallies would be held in the Balochistan provincial capital Quetta and the Punjab provincial capital Lahore before an opposition march on the capital Islamabad .

<response> <person>Sharif</person> said similar rallies would be held in the <location>Balochistan</location> provincial capital <location>Quetta</location> and the <location>Punjab</location> provincial capital <location>Lahore</location> before an opposition march on the capital <location>Islamabad</location> . </response>


" I promise the people of Karachi that those responsible for the extra-judicial killing of innocent youths would not be spared , " Sharif said .

<response> " I promise the people of <location>Karachi</location> that those responsible for the extra-judicial killing of innocent youths would not be spared , " <person>Sharif</person> said . </response>


Karachi 's ethnic Mohajir National Movement ( MQM ) accuses the government of killing many of its militants in cold blood .

<response> <location>Karachi</location> 's ethnic <organization>Mohajir National Movement</organization> ( <organization>MQM</organization> ) accuses the government of killing many of its militants in cold blood . </response>


The government has denied the charge and blames the MQM for much of the violence that killed 2,000 people in the city last year .

<response> The government has denied the charge and blames the <organization>MQM</organization> for much of the violence that killed 2,000 people in the city last year . </response>


Political observers said the turn-out was disappointing for a city of about 12 million people , possibly indicating that the MQM , although a member of the opposition alliance , had not mobilised its supporters for the event .

<response> Political observers said the turn-out was disappointing for a city of about 12 million people , possibly indicating that the <organization>MQM</organization> , although a member of the opposition alliance , had not mobilised its supporters for the event . </response>


<response> The turbulent southern port has been calmer this year , but police say more than 300 people have died in political unrest . </response>


The MQM speaks for Urdu-speaking Moslems who migrated from India at Partition in 1947 and their descendants .

<response> The <organization>MQM</organization> speaks for <misc>Urdu-speaking Moslems</misc> who migrated from <location>India</location> at <location>Partition</location> in 1947 and their descendants . </response>


Sharif , a former prime minister , is the main political rival of Bhutto , who defeated him in the October 1993 election .

<response> <person>Sharif</person> , a former prime minister , is the main political rival of <person>Bhutto</person> , who defeated him in the October 1993 election . </response>


He said only the removal of the government and an early election could save Pakistan from disaster . "

<response> He said only the removal of the government and an early election could save <location>Pakistan</location> from disaster . " </response>


We will dislodge the Bhutto government .

<response> We will dislodge the <person>Bhutto</person> government . </response>


It is a holy war for us , " he said .

<response> It is a holy war for us , " he said . </response>


Bhutto has vowed to complete her five-year term .

<response> <person>Bhutto</person> has vowed to complete her five-year term . </response>


India ACC Apr-Jul ' 96 sales , output up .

<response> <location>India</location> <organization>ACC</organization> Apr-Jul ' 96 sales , output up . </response>


BOMBAY 1996-08-28

<response> <location>BOMBAY</location> 1996-08-28 </response>


India 's leading cement firm Associated Cement Companies ( ACC ) said on Wednesday its cement sales rose to 3.1 million tonnes in April-July 1996 from 2.93 million a year ago .

<response> <location>India</location> 's leading cement firm <organization>Associated Cement Companies</organization> ( <organization>ACC</organization> ) said on Wednesday its cement sales rose to 3.1 million tonnes in April-July 1996 from 2.93 million a year ago . </response>


ACC Chairman Nani Palkhivala told shareholders at the firm 's annual meeting cement output rose to 3.14 million tonnes in the first quarter of 1996/97 ( April-March ) , from 3.01 million a year ago .

<response> <organization>ACC</organization> Chairman <person>Nani Palkhivala</person> told shareholders at the firm 's annual meeting cement output rose to 3.14 million tonnes in the first quarter of 1996/97 ( April-March ) , from 3.01 million a year ago . </response>


Palkhivala said ACC had secured government approval to take over a sick cement firm with a grinding capacity of 275,000 tonnes per year . "

<response> <person>Palkhivala</person> said <organization>ACC</organization> had secured government approval to take over a sick cement firm with a grinding capacity of 275,000 tonnes per year . " </response>


<response> We will take it over early next month , " he said . </response>


Talking about the cement industry in general , Palkhivala said Indian production rose by about 10 percent in 1995/96 .

<response> Talking about the cement industry in general , <person>Palkhivala</person> said <misc>Indian</misc> production rose by about 10 percent in 1995/96 . </response>


" The industry saw capacity expansion of about 13 percent over 1994/95 from 77.79 million tonnes to 87.45 million tonnes , " Palkhivala told shareholders .

<response> " The industry saw capacity expansion of about 13 percent over 1994/95 from 77.79 million tonnes to 87.45 million tonnes , " <person>Palkhivala</person> told shareholders . </response>


He said Indian cement exports dropped about eight percent from the previous year because of stiff international competition and inadequate infrastructural facilities .

<response> He said <misc>Indian</misc> cement exports dropped about eight percent from the previous year because of stiff international competition and inadequate infrastructural facilities . </response>


ACC 's own export performance was marginally better than in 1994/95 on account of a 36 percent rise in exports to Nepal and the opening of a new market - Sri Lanka , he said .

<response> <organization>ACC</organization> 's own export performance was marginally better than in 1994/95 on account of a 36 percent rise in exports to <location>Nepal</location> and the opening of a new market - <location>Sri Lanka</location> , he said . </response>


Despite power shortages , ACC achieved a satisfactory growth in production during the year with the help of its power plants .

<response> Despite power shortages , <organization>ACC</organization> achieved a satisfactory growth in production during the year with the help of its power plants . </response>


ACC sold 9.4 million tonnes in 1995/96 , retaining its top position in the Indian cement industry , Palkhivala said .

<response> <organization>ACC</organization> sold 9.4 million tonnes in 1995/96 , retaining its top position in the <misc>Indian</misc> cement industry , <person>Palkhivala</person> said . </response>


-- Bombay newsroom +91-22-265 9000

<response> -- <location>Bombay</location> newsroom +91-22-265 9000 </response>


Belgium bank sanctions $ 6.5 mln loan to India WSRL .

<response> <location>Belgium</location> bank sanctions $ 6.5 mln loan to <location>India</location> <organization>WSRL</organization> . </response>


BOMBAY 1996-08-28


Belgium 's Kredietbank has approved a $ 6.5 million loan to India 's Welspun Stahl Rohren Ltd ( WSRL ) to part-finance its submerged arc welded pipes plant , the Indian company said in a statement on Wednesday .

<response> <location>Belgium</location> 's <organization>Kredietbank</organization> has approved a $ 6.5 million loan to <location>India</location> 's <organization>Welspun Stahl Rohren Ltd</organization> ( <organization>WSRL</organization> ) to part-finance its submerged arc welded pipes plant , the <misc>Indian</misc> company said in a statement on Wednesday . </response>


The loan is at LIBOR plus one percent , it said .

<response> The loan is at <misc>LIBOR</misc> plus one percent , it said . </response>


The loan , maturing in six years , is guaranteed by Indusind Bank for $ 3.5 million and by UTI Bank for $ 3 million , it said .

<response> The loan , maturing in six years , is guaranteed by <organization>Indusind Bank</organization> for $ 3.5 million and by <organization>UTI Bank</organization> for $ 3 million , it said . </response>


The WSRL plant , located in the western Indian state of Gujarat , will have a capacity to manufacture 175,000 tonnes per annum of longitudinal pipes and 25,000 tonnes per annum of spiral welded pipes , the statement said .

<response> The <organization>WSRL</organization> plant , located in the western <misc>Indian</misc> state of <location>Gujarat</location> , will have a capacity to manufacture 175,000 tonnes per annum of longitudinal pipes and 25,000 tonnes per annum of spiral welded pipes , the statement said . </response>


<response> The longitudinal pipes plant is expected to be complete by the second quarter of September 1997 and the saw arc welded pipes plant by September 1996 , it said . </response>


WSRL is part of the Welspun group which has a presence in the cotton yarn , terry towels and polyester yarn industry , the statement said .

<response> <organization>WSRL</organization> is part of the <organization>Welspun</organization> group which has a presence in the cotton yarn , terry towels and polyester yarn industry , the statement said . </response>


-- Bombay newsroom +91-22-265 9000


India fishermen say forced to carry Tamil refugees .

<response> <location>India</location> fishermen say forced to carry <misc>Tamil</misc> refugees . </response>


P.V. Krishnamoorthy

<response> <person>P.V. Krishnamoorthy</person> </response>


RAMESWARAM , India 1996-08-28

<response> <location>RAMESWARAM</location> , <location>India</location> 1996-08-28 </response>


Indian fishermen said on Wednesday they had been forced at gunpoint to ferry refugees fleeing the ethnic war in Sri Lanka to India , as a protest strike by more than 30,000 fishermen entered its ninth day .

<response> <misc>Indian</misc> fishermen said on Wednesday they had been forced at gunpoint to ferry refugees fleeing the ethnic war in <location>Sri Lanka</location> to <location>India</location> , as a protest strike by more than 30,000 fishermen entered its ninth day . </response>


<response> " There is little we can do when at mid-sea . </response>


The LTTE ( Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam ) accosts us and , at the point of a gun , forces us to take refugees , " said senior fishermen leader P. Arulanandam .

<response> The <organization>LTTE</organization> ( <organization>Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam</organization> ) accosts us and , at the point of a gun , forces us to take refugees , " said senior fishermen leader <person>P. Arulanandam</person> . </response>


Some 850 refugees have landed in recent weeks at the port of Rameswaram in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu , home to 50 million Tamil-speaking people , port officials say .

<response> Some 850 refugees have landed in recent weeks at the port of <location>Rameswaram</location> in the southern <misc>Indian</misc> state of <location>Tamil Nadu</location> , home to 50 million <misc>Tamil-speaking</misc> people , port officials say . </response>


Rameswaram is 15 km ( 10 miles ) off the coast of Sri Lanka .

<response> <location>Rameswaram</location> is 15 km ( 10 miles ) off the coast of <location>Sri Lanka</location> . </response>


State chief minister M. Karunanidhi has publicly welcomed the refugees , who are fleeing the 13-year war between Tamil separatists and government troops that Colombo says has cost 50,000 lives .

<response> State chief minister <person>M. Karunanidhi</person> has publicly welcomed the refugees , who are fleeing the 13-year war between <misc>Tamil</misc> separatists and government troops that <location>Colombo</location> says has cost 50,000 lives . </response>


But the influx has triggered fears of a repeat of the 1980s when some 200,000 refugees landed in Tamil Nadu .

<response> But the influx has triggered fears of a repeat of the 1980s when some 200,000 refugees landed in <location>Tamil Nadu</location> . </response>


Intelligence officals said more than 5,000 Tamils were waiting on the western coast of Sri Lanka to cross into India .

<response> Intelligence officals said more than 5,000 <misc>Tamils</misc> were waiting on the western coast of <location>Sri Lanka</location> to cross into <location>India</location> . </response>


The Indian government has warned its fishermen that their boats would be impounded if they were caught ferrying refugees .

<response> The <misc>Indian</misc> government has warned its fishermen that their boats would be impounded if they were caught ferrying refugees . </response>


The fishermen went on strike last week to protest the government 's cancellation of three trawlers ' fishing licenses after the boats were caught carrying Tamil refugees .

<response> The fishermen went on strike last week to protest the government 's cancellation of three trawlers ' fishing licenses after the boats were caught carrying <misc>Tamil</misc> refugees . </response>


All Fishermen 's Association secretary N.J. Bose said the strike would continue indefinitely and the fishermen would block road and rail traffic if their demands were not met .

<response> <organization>All Fishermen 's Association</organization> secretary <person>N.J. Bose</person> said the strike would continue indefinitely and the fishermen would block road and rail traffic if their demands were not met . </response>


" Until the government releases our boats from naval custody and Sri Lankan naval custody , and gives us assurance ( it will not revoke licences of boats ferrying refugees ) , we will not call off our strike , " Bose said .

<response> " Until the government releases our boats from naval custody and <misc>Sri Lankan</misc> naval custody , and gives us assurance ( it will not revoke licences of boats ferrying refugees ) , we will not call off our strike , " <person>Bose</person> said . </response>


LTTE spokesmen could not immediately be reached for comment , but Sri Lankan fishermen denied that Indians were being coerced into carrying refugees across the Palk Strait .

<response> <organization>LTTE</organization> spokesmen could not immediately be reached for comment , but <misc>Sri Lankan</misc> fishermen denied that <misc>Indians</misc> were being coerced into carrying refugees across the <location>Palk Strait</location> . </response>


" Indian fishermen come right up to Pesalai to fish , and when refugees request them to ferry them across , they readily oblige .

<response> " <misc>Indian</misc> fishermen come right up to <location>Pesalai</location> to fish , and when refugees request them to ferry them across , they readily oblige . </response>


Only some take money , " Sri Lankan boatman Chinnathambi said .

<response> Only some take money , " <misc>Sri Lankan</misc> boatman <person>Chinnathambi</person> said . </response>


Arulanandam denied the fishermen charged the refugees for passage to India and said it was unfair to penalise them for the refugees ' arrival .

<response> <person>Arulanandam</person> denied the fishermen charged the refugees for passage to <location>India</location> and said it was unfair to penalise them for the refugees ' arrival . </response>


<response> " We have not gone to sea since August 19 , but refugees are arriving daily nevertheless . </response>


<response> How could we alone be held responsible for the influx ? " </response>


he said .


An Indian Fisheries Department official said the government planned to urge fishermen not to cross the international boundary between India and Sri Lanka , but admitted this would be hard to enforce because of Sri Lanka 's pomfret-rich waters .

<response> An <organization>Indian Fisheries Department</organization> official said the government planned to urge fishermen not to cross the international boundary between <location>India</location> and <location>Sri Lanka</location> , but admitted this would be hard to enforce because of <location>Sri Lanka</location> 's pomfret-rich waters . </response>


Indian cotton trade shut for local festival .

<response> <misc>Indian</misc> cotton trade shut for local festival . </response>


BOMBAY 1996-08-28

<response> <location>BOMBAY</location> 1996-08-28 </response>


India 's cotton trade was shut on Wednesday for a local religious festival , dealers said .

<response> <location>India</location> 's cotton trade was shut on Wednesday for a local religious festival , dealers said . </response>


Trading will resume on Thursday .

<response> Trading will resume on Thursday . </response>


<response> On Tuesday , cotton prices fell on profit-taking prompted by increased offerings from state agencies . </response>


<response> " Export deals remained thin and hardly a few thousand bales were traded at the rate of 57.50 / 60 cents per pound , " one broker said . </response>


-- Bombay Commodities +91-22-265 9000

<response> -- <organization>Bombay Commodities</organization> +91-22-265 9000 </response>


VW sees group net profit doubling in Q3 .

<response> <organization>VW</organization> sees group net profit doubling in Q3 . </response>


DRESDEN , Germany 1996-08-28

<response> <location>DRESDEN</location> , <location>Germany</location> 1996-08-28 </response>


German carmaker Volkswagen AG said on Wednesday that it expected group net profit to double in the third quarter .

<response> <misc>German</misc> carmaker <organization>Volkswagen AG</organization> said on Wednesday that it expected group net profit to double in the third quarter . </response>


" We have been seeking to double our profits ( during the period ) and we are confident of doing so , " VW chief financial officer Bruno Adelt told a briefing as part of the formal introduction of the new VW Passat sedan .

<response> " We have been seeking to double our profits ( during the period ) and we are confident of doing so , " <organization>VW</organization> chief financial officer <person>Bruno Adelt</person> told a briefing as part of the formal introduction of the new <misc>VW Passat</misc> sedan . </response>


Adelt did not give a concrete forecast .

<response> <person>Adelt</person> did not give a concrete forecast . </response>


VW had a 1995 third quarter group net profit of 72 million marks .

<response> <organization>VW</organization> had a 1995 third quarter group net profit of 72 million marks . </response>


<response> The group reported a 1996 first-half group net profit of 282 million marks . </response>


-- John Gilardi , Frankfurt Newsroom , +49 69 756525

<response> -- <person>John Gilardi</person> , <organization>Frankfurt Newsroom</organization> , +49 69 756525 </response>


MILTIADIS EVERT HEADS TO ALEXANDROUPOLIS THIS WEEKEND .

<response> <person>MILTIADIS EVERT</person> HEADS TO <location>ALEXANDROUPOLIS</location> THIS WEEKEND . </response>


ATHENS 1996-08-28

<response> <location>ATHENS</location> 1996-08-28 </response>


Conservative New Democracy ( ND ) party leader Miltiadis Evert will be hitting the campaign trail and head to Alexandroupolis this weekend to speak to the city 's businessmen on Sunday morning , ND said .

<response> <organization>Conservative New Democracy</organization> ( <organization>ND</organization> ) party leader <person>Miltiadis Evert</person> will be hitting the campaign trail and head to <location>Alexandroupolis</location> this weekend to speak to the city 's businessmen on Sunday morning , <organization>ND</organization> said . </response>


Evert will depart for Alexandroupolis on Saturday afternoon .

<response> <person>Evert</person> will depart for <location>Alexandroupolis</location> on Saturday afternoon . </response>


Prime Minister Costas Simitis criticized Evert today for unleashing a seven-point economic package that offers tax relief to merchants and other professionals , higher pensions to farmers and support for small business .

<response> Prime Minister <person>Costas Simitis</person> criticized <person>Evert</person> today for unleashing a seven-point economic package that offers tax relief to merchants and other professionals , higher pensions to farmers and support for small business . </response>


The finance ministry estimated the cost of ND 's economic measures to over 600 billion drachmas but ND officials put the figure much lower to about 300 billion drachmas .

<response> The finance ministry estimated the cost of <organization>ND</organization> 's economic measures to over 600 billion drachmas but <organization>ND</organization> officials put the figure much lower to about 300 billion drachmas . </response>


Simitis blamed ND for the low absorption rate of EU funds and said the socialists will increase farmers ' pensions , combat tax evasion and accelerate GDP growth rates to 4.0 percent in a few years .

<response> <person>Simitis</person> blamed <organization>ND</organization> for the low absorption rate of <organization>EU</organization> funds and said the socialists will increase farmers ' pensions , combat tax evasion and accelerate GDP growth rates to 4.0 percent in a few years . </response>


Faster economic growth is a major component of ND 's economic programme and Evert has repeatedly blamed the socialists for the slow economic growth .

<response> Faster economic growth is a major component of <organization>ND</organization> 's economic programme and <person>Evert</person> has repeatedly blamed the socialists for the slow economic growth . </response>


-- Dimitris Kontogiannis , Athens Newsroom +301 3311812-4

<response> -- <person>Dimitris Kontogiannis</person> , <organization>Athens Newsroom</organization> +301 3311812-4 </response>


Dow pushes London stocks to new record .

<response> <misc>Dow</misc> pushes <location>London</location> stocks to new record . </response>


Peter Griffiths

<response> <person>Peter Griffiths</person> </response>


LONDON 1996-08-28

<response> <location>LONDON</location> 1996-08-28 </response>


A firm start on Wall Street helped push leading London shares to a new record high on Wednesday and German stocks closed floor trading up but the Paris bourse slipped sharply , hit by a weakening franc and fears of industrial unrest .

<response> A firm start on <location>Wall Street</location> helped push leading <location>London</location> shares to a new record high on Wednesday and <misc>German</misc> stocks closed floor trading up but the <location>Paris</location> bourse slipped sharply , hit by a weakening franc and fears of industrial unrest . </response>


On the foreign exchange markets , a survey indicating weaker than expected Japanese business sentiment boosted the dollar in early trading but it failed to build on its gains against the yen and slipped lower against the mark in quiet afternoon trade .

<response> On the foreign exchange markets , a survey indicating weaker than expected <misc>Japanese</misc> business sentiment boosted the dollar in early trading but it failed to build on its gains against the yen and slipped lower against the mark in quiet afternoon trade . </response>


London shares , boosted by Wall Street , added to early gains with the blue chip FTSE 100 index hitting a new peak of 3921.8 before dropping back slightly .

<response> <location>London</location> shares , boosted by <location>Wall Street</location> , added to early gains with the blue chip <misc>FTSE 100</misc> index hitting a new peak of 3921.8 before dropping back slightly . </response>


One focus was British Airways , which rebounded after fears faded that the cancellation of " open skies " talks between the U.S. Transportation Department and the British government may jeopardise its tie-up with American Airlines .

<response> One focus was <organization>British Airways</organization> , which rebounded after fears faded that the cancellation of " open skies " talks between the <organization>U.S. Transportation Department</organization> and the <misc>British</misc> government may jeopardise its tie-up with <organization>American Airlines</organization> . </response>


The conclusion of an open skies agreement had been made a prerequisite of the proposed link-up by the U.S .

<response> The conclusion of an open skies agreement had been made a prerequisite of the proposed link-up by the <location>U.S</location> . </response>


Better-than-expected British trade figures had little impact on equities .

<response> Better-than-expected <misc>British</misc> trade figures had little impact on equities . </response>


The non-EU July trade deficit totalled 506 million sterling ( $ 788 million ) while June 's world deficit was 1.12 billion pounds .

<response> The <misc>non-EU</misc> July trade deficit totalled 506 million sterling ( $ 788 million ) while June 's world deficit was 1.12 billion pounds . </response>


<response> Forecasts were for deficits of 900 million sterling and 1.4 billion sterling . </response>


German shares shed some gains on profit-taking but nonetheless ended the floor session higher buoyed by demand for chemical stocks and a stable dollar .

<response> <misc>German</misc> shares shed some gains on profit-taking but nonetheless ended the floor session higher buoyed by demand for chemical stocks and a stable dollar . </response>


The 30-share DAX index closed at 2,563.16 points , up 4.32 .

<response> The 30-share <misc>DAX</misc> index closed at 2,563.16 points , up 4.32 . </response>


However , French stocks extended opening losses to more than one percent in morning trading , falling through the 2000 point resistance level on the main CAC-40 index .

<response> However , <misc>French</misc> stocks extended opening losses to more than one percent in morning trading , falling through the 2000 point resistance level on the main <misc>CAC-40</misc> index . </response>


<response> Dealers blamed a weakening franc and worries about the 1997 budget and possible autumn strikes </response>


Louis Viannet , leader of France 's Communist-led CGT union , criticised government plans for spending cuts in the 1997 budget on Wednesday and warned of labour unrest as France gets back to work after the holidays .

<response> <person>Louis Viannet</person> , leader of <location>France</location> 's <misc>Communist-led</misc> <organization>CGT</organization> union , criticised government plans for spending cuts in the 1997 budget on Wednesday and warned of labour unrest as <location>France</location> gets back to work after the holidays . </response>


Later in the day , helped by the firmer Wall Street opening , Paris climbed back to the 2000 level but still remained well into negative territory .

<response> Later in the day , helped by the firmer <location>Wall Street</location> opening , <location>Paris</location> climbed back to the 2000 level but still remained well into negative territory . </response>


In foreign exchange the dollar was trading at around 108.40 yen in the European afternoon , up from its European close on Tuesday of 107.55 but off the day 's highs .

<response> In foreign exchange the dollar was trading at around 108.40 yen in the <misc>European</misc> afternoon , up from its <misc>European</misc> close on Tuesday of 107.55 but off the day 's highs . </response>


It had been boosted overnight by the Bank of Japan 's quarterly corporate survey , or " tankan " , of major manufacturers -- an important gauge of business sentiment .

<response> It had been boosted overnight by the <organization>Bank of Japan</organization> 's quarterly corporate survey , or " tankan " , of major manufacturers -- an important gauge of business sentiment . </response>


The unexpectedly weak figures convinced markets that Japanese interest rates would stay at rock-bottom levels -- weakening the yen .

<response> The unexpectedly weak figures convinced markets that <misc>Japanese</misc> interest rates would stay at rock-bottom levels -- weakening the yen . </response>


The Japanese discount rate is currently at a record low of 0.5 percent .

<response> The <misc>Japanese</misc> discount rate is currently at a record low of 0.5 percent . </response>


The BOJ sought to put the best face on the data which defied economists ' predictions of improving sentiment and was the first decline in business sentiment in a year .

<response> The <organization>BOJ</organization> sought to put the best face on the data which defied economists ' predictions of improving sentiment and was the first decline in business sentiment in a year . </response>


A BOJ spokesman said " the doors to the recovery have not been shut ...

<response> A <organization>BOJ</organization> spokesman said " the doors to the recovery have not been shut ... </response>


the recovery is still continuing . "

<response> the recovery is still continuing . " </response>


<response> These remarks gave the yen some backbone and the dollar failed to progress further . </response>


" The dollar 's gains were less than spectacular , suggesting that while it 's likely to benefit from revised Japanese rate expectations , a breakout from the established trading range does n't appear likely , " said currency economist Klaus Baader .

<response> " The dollar 's gains were less than spectacular , suggesting that while it 's likely to benefit from revised <misc>Japanese</misc> rate expectations , a breakout from the established trading range does n't appear likely , " said currency economist <person>Klaus Baader</person> . </response>


<response> Dealers said shares were also affected by a slippage in bond prices due to lower than expected June industrial production , showing the economy was still faltering . </response>


CURRENCIES AT 1500 GMT

<response> CURRENCIES AT 1500 <misc>GMT</misc> </response>


The dollar was at 108.40 yen and 1.4765 marks compared with Tuesday 's European close of 107.78 yen and 1.4779 marks

<response> The dollar was at 108.40 yen and 1.4765 marks compared with Tuesday 's <misc>European</misc> close of 107.78 yen and 1.4779 marks </response>


STOCK MARKETS AT 1500 GMT

<response> STOCK MARKETS AT 1500 <misc>GMT</misc> </response>


The Financial Times-Stock Exchange index of 100 leading British shares had risen 15 points to 3,920.7 .

<response> The <misc>Financial Times-Stock Exchange</misc> index of 100 leading <misc>British</misc> shares had risen 15 points to 3,920.7 . </response>


In Paris , the CAC-40 share index dropped 15.09 to 2,002.9 .

<response> In <location>Paris</location> , the <misc>CAC-40</misc> share index dropped 15.09 to 2,002.9 . </response>


The 30-share DAX index in Frankfurt closed up 4.32 at 2,563.16 .

<response> The 30-share <misc>DAX</misc> index in <location>Frankfurt</location> closed up 4.32 at 2,563.16 . </response>


PRECIOUS METALS


Gold fixed at $ 388.50 versus Tuesday 's London close of $ 388.55 .

<response> Gold fixed at $ 388.50 versus Tuesday 's <location>London</location> close of $ 388.55 . </response>


Silver was at 521.15 cents .

<response> Silver was at 521.15 cents . </response>


( $ 1=.6421 Sterling )

<response> ( $ 1=.6421 Sterling ) </response>


AEI 's Spanish operation wins ISO 9002 .

<response> <organization>AEI</organization> 's <misc>Spanish</misc> operation wins <misc>ISO 9002</misc> . </response>


LONDON 1996-08-28

<response> <location>LONDON</location> 1996-08-28 </response>


Air Express International said in a statement that Spain has become the twenty-second country in its network to achieve ISO 9002 quality accreditation .

<response> <organization>Air Express International</organization> said in a statement that <location>Spain</location> has become the twenty-second country in its network to achieve <misc>ISO 9002</misc> quality accreditation . </response>


It added Bureau Veritas has accredited AEI Iberfreight 's offices at Alicante , Barcelona , Bilbao , Madrid , Seville and Valencia as meeting the necessary standards .

<response> It added <organization>Bureau Veritas</organization> has accredited <organization>AEI Iberfreight</organization> 's offices at <location>Alicante</location> , <location>Barcelona</location> , <location>Bilbao</location> , <location>Madrid</location> , <location>Seville</location> and <location>Valencia</location> as meeting the necessary standards . </response>


-- Air Cargo Newsroom Tel+44 171 542 7706 Fax+44 171 542 5017

<response> -- <organization>Air Cargo Newsroom</organization> Tel+44 171 542 7706 Fax+44 171 542 5017 </response>


Arafat says Israel declares war on Palestinians .

<response> <person>Arafat</person> says <location>Israel</location> declares war on <misc>Palestinians</misc> . </response>


Wafa Amr

<response> <person>Wafa Amr</person> </response>


RAMALLAH , West Bank 1996-08-28

<response> <location>RAMALLAH</location> , <location>West Bank</location> 1996-08-28 </response>


Palestinian President Yasser Arafat said on Wednesday that Israel had declared war on the Palestinians and called for the first general strike in the West Bank and Gaza in two years .

<response> <misc>Palestinian</misc> President <person>Yasser Arafat</person> said on Wednesday that <location>Israel</location> had declared war on the <misc>Palestinians</misc> and called for the first general strike in the <location>West Bank</location> and <location>Gaza</location> in two years . </response>


" What happened concerning continuous violations and crimes from this new Israeli leadership means they are declaring a state of war against the Palestinian people , " Arafat told the Palestinian legislature .

<response> " What happened concerning continuous violations and crimes from this new <misc>Israeli</misc> leadership means they are declaring a state of war against the <misc>Palestinian</misc> people , " <person>Arafat</person> told the <misc>Palestinian</misc> legislature . </response>


Accusing Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of stupidity , Arafat launched his strongest attack on the right-wing government since its election in May .

<response> Accusing <misc>Israeli</misc> Prime Minister <person>Benjamin Netanyahu</person> of stupidity , <person>Arafat</person> launched his strongest attack on the right-wing government since its election in May . </response>


The tirade was sparked by Israel 's announcement on Tuesday of plans to expand the Jewish settlement of Kiryat Sefer and its demolishing of a community centre in Arab East Jerusalem .

<response> The tirade was sparked by <location>Israel</location> 's announcement on Tuesday of plans to expand the <misc>Jewish</misc> settlement of <location>Kiryat Sefer</location> and its demolishing of a community centre in <location>Arab East Jerusalem</location> . </response>


" Israel has started the war on Jerusalem .

<response> " <location>Israel</location> has started the war on <location>Jerusalem</location> . </response>


They are idiots to have started the Jerusalem battle , " Arafat said in Arabic . "

<response> They are idiots to have started the <location>Jerusalem</location> battle , " <person>Arafat</person> said in <misc>Arabic</misc> . " </response>


There will be no Palestinian state without Jerusalem .

<response> There will be no <misc>Palestinian</misc> state without <location>Jerusalem</location> . </response>


Netanyahu should know he is stupid to have started this battle . "

<response> <person>Netanyahu</person> should know he is stupid to have started this battle . " </response>


Arafat called for a general strike " for Jerusalem " on Thursday in all of the West Bank and Gaza Strip .

<response> <person>Arafat</person> called for a general strike " for <location>Jerusalem</location> " on Thursday in all of the <location>West Bank</location> and <location>Gaza Strip</location> . </response>


There has not been a joint shutdown there since May 1994 when Israeli troops began withdrawing under an interim self-rule agreement signed in 1993 .

<response> There has not been a joint shutdown there since May 1994 when <misc>Israeli</misc> troops began withdrawing under an interim self-rule agreement signed in 1993 . </response>


The strike will have little effect on the Israeli economy while hurting Palestinian merchants in East Jerusalem and Bethlehem who cater to the tourist trade .

<response> The strike will have little effect on the <misc>Israeli</misc> economy while hurting <misc>Palestinian</misc> merchants in <location>East Jerusalem</location> and <location>Bethlehem</location> who cater to the tourist trade . </response>


Some 25,000 Palestinian labourers are likely to stay away from their jobs , mainly in construction , in Israel .

<response> Some 25,000 <misc>Palestinian</misc> labourers are likely to stay away from their jobs , mainly in construction , in <location>Israel</location> . </response>


But Palestinians , once the backbone of the building industry , have been largely replaced by labourers from Romania and China .

<response> But <misc>Palestinians</misc> , once the backbone of the building industry , have been largely replaced by labourers from <location>Romania</location> and <location>China</location> . </response>


" On Friday , all Moslems , including Palestinians in Israel ...

<response> " On Friday , all <misc>Moslems</misc> , including <misc>Palestinians</misc> in <location>Israel</location> ... </response>


will go to ( Jerusalem 's ) Al-Aqsa mosque and pray .

<response> will go to ( <location>Jerusalem</location> 's ) <location>Al-Aqsa</location> mosque and pray . </response>


Jews and Christians who do not pray should accompany them and stand behind them , " Arafat said .

<response> <misc>Jews</misc> and <misc>Christians</misc> who do not pray should accompany them and stand behind them , " <person>Arafat</person> said . </response>


Officials in Netanyahu 's office were not immediately available for comment on Arafat 's remarks .

<response> Officials in <person>Netanyahu</person> 's office were not immediately available for comment on <person>Arafat</person> 's remarks . </response>


Israeli travel restrictions , imposed after bombings by Moslem militants in February and March , ban most of the two million Arabs in the West Bank and Gaza from entering Jerusalem .

<response> <misc>Israeli</misc> travel restrictions , imposed after bombings by <misc>Moslem</misc> militants in February and March , ban most of the two million <misc>Arabs</misc> in the <location>West Bank</location> and <location>Gaza</location> from entering <location>Jerusalem</location> . </response>


Netanyahu , who opposes trading occupied land for peace , made Jerusalem a central issue in his election campaign , accusing Labour Prime Minister Shimon Peres of planning to hand control of the Arab eastern part of the city to the Palestinians .

<response> <person>Netanyahu</person> , who opposes trading occupied land for peace , made <location>Jerusalem</location> a central issue in his election campaign , accusing <organization>Labour</organization> Prime Minister <person>Shimon Peres</person> of planning to hand control of the <misc>Arab</misc> eastern part of the city to the <misc>Palestinians</misc> . </response>


Israel captured East Jerusalem in the 1967 Middle East war and claims both halves of the city as its capital .

<response> <location>Israel</location> captured <location>East Jerusalem</location> in the 1967 <location>Middle East</location> war and claims both halves of the city as its capital . </response>


The PLO wants East Jerusalem as the capital of a future Palestinian state .

<response> The <organization>PLO</organization> wants <location>East Jerusalem</location> as the capital of a future <misc>Palestinian</misc> state . </response>


In his speech to the crowded legislature , Arafat signalled he was not abandoning diplomacy although " alarm bells are ringing " .

<response> In his speech to the crowded legislature , <person>Arafat</person> signalled he was not abandoning diplomacy although " alarm bells are ringing " . </response>


He unexpectedly broke off his address to take a telephone call from U.S. Middle East envoy Dennis Ross , who held talks in Paris on Tuesday with Israeli and Egyptian officials .

<response> He unexpectedly broke off his address to take a telephone call from <location>U.S. Middle East</location> envoy <person>Dennis Ross</person> , who held talks in <location>Paris</location> on Tuesday with <misc>Israeli</misc> and <misc>Egyptian</misc> officials . </response>


When Arafat returned to the podium , he said senior PLO negotiator Mahmoud Abbas , better known as Abu Mazen , and Netanyahu aide Dore Gold could meet on Thursday .

<response> When <person>Arafat</person> returned to the podium , he said senior <organization>PLO</organization> negotiator <person>Mahmoud Abbas</person> , better known as <person>Abu Mazen</person> , and <person>Netanyahu</person> aide <person>Dore Gold</person> could meet on Thursday . </response>


He quoted Ross as telling him : " The important thing is the Israelis are prepared to move . "

<response> He quoted <person>Ross</person> as telling him : " The important thing is the <misc>Israelis</misc> are prepared to move . " </response>


Arafat said he replied : " is this like their previous promises ? "

<response> <person>Arafat</person> said he replied : " is this like their previous promises ? " </response>


" No , they have good intentions , " Arafat quoted Ross as saying .

<response> " No , they have good intentions , " <person>Arafat</person> quoted <person>Ross</person> as saying . </response>


Palestinians have been pressing Israel to carry out a long-delayed partial troop pullout from the flashpoint West Bank city of Hebron agreed by the previous Labour government .

<response> <misc>Palestinians</misc> have been pressing <location>Israel</location> to carry out a long-delayed partial troop pullout from the flashpoint <location>West Bank</location> city of <location>Hebron</location> agreed by the previous <organization>Labour</organization> government . </response>


The Israeli government is studying redeployment plans submitted by Defence Minister Yitzhak Mordechai which are likely to demand a wider than agreed army presence in Hebron .

<response> The <misc>Israeli</misc> government is studying redeployment plans submitted by Defence Minister <person>Yitzhak Mordechai</person> which are likely to demand a wider than agreed army presence in <location>Hebron</location> . </response>


Turkey 's Ciller to hold talks in Jordan .

<response> <location>Turkey</location> 's <person>Ciller</person> to hold talks in <location>Jordan</location> . </response>


ANKARA 1996-08-28

<response> <location>ANKARA</location> 1996-08-28 </response>


Turkish Foreign Minister Tansu Ciller will visit Jordan on September 3 on her first trip abroad since she took office in June , Foreign Ministry spokesman Omer Akbel said on Wednesday .

<response> <misc>Turkish</misc> Foreign Minister <person>Tansu Ciller</person> will visit <location>Jordan</location> on September 3 on her first trip abroad since she took office in June , <organization>Foreign Ministry</organization> spokesman <person>Omer Akbel</person> said on Wednesday . </response>


" The two-day visit will take place at the invitation of Jordanian Prime Minister Abdul-Karim al-Kabariti , " he told reporters .

<response> " The two-day visit will take place at the invitation of <misc>Jordanian</misc> Prime Minister <person>Abdul-Karim al-Kabariti</person> , " he told reporters . </response>


He said Turkey considered Jordan a suitable country with which to cooperate on Middle East matters .

<response> He said <location>Turkey</location> considered <location>Jordan</location> a suitable country with which to cooperate on <location>Middle East</location> matters . </response>


Bilateral relations and the Middle East peace process would be on the table during the visit , Akbel said .

<response> Bilateral relations and the <location>Middle East</location> peace process would be on the table during the visit , <person>Akbel</person> said . </response>


Turkish Prime Minister Necmettin Erbakan visited mainly Moslem countries , including Iran , during a 10-day tour earlier in August .

<response> <misc>Turkish</misc> Prime Minister <person>Necmettin Erbakan</person> visited mainly <misc>Moslem</misc> countries , including <location>Iran</location> , during a 10-day tour earlier in August . </response>


Italian prime minister to visit Turkey .

<response> <misc>Italian</misc> prime minister to visit <location>Turkey</location> . </response>


ANKARA 1996-08-28


Italian Prime Minister Romano Prodi will pay a one-day working visit to Turkey on September 3 , the Turkish Foreign Ministry said on Wednesday .

<response> <misc>Italian</misc> Prime Minister <person>Romano Prodi</person> will pay a one-day working visit to <location>Turkey</location> on September 3 , the <misc>Turkish</misc> <organization>Foreign Ministry</organization> said on Wednesday . </response>


<response> " Both countries ' governments were formed recently . </response>


This visit will create a direct contact opportunity for the two parties to express their views , " spokesman Omer Akbel told a news briefing .

<response> This visit will create a direct contact opportunity for the two parties to express their views , " spokesman <person>Omer Akbel</person> told a news briefing . </response>


The Italian prime minister , in office since May 18 , will be the first Western leader to meet Islamist Prime Minister Necmettin Erbakan since he came to power on June 28 .

<response> The <misc>Italian</misc> prime minister , in office since May 18 , will be the first <misc>Western</misc> leader to meet <misc>Islamist</misc> Prime Minister <person>Necmettin Erbakan</person> since he came to power on June 28 . </response>


Prodi will also meet President Suleyman Demirel and Foreign Minister Tansu Ciller , Akbel said .

<response> <person>Prodi</person> will also meet President <person>Suleyman Demirel</person> and Foreign Minister <person>Tansu Ciller</person> , <person>Akbel</person> said . </response>


Turkey says 25 Kurd rebels killed in clashes .

<response> <location>Turkey</location> says 25 <misc>Kurd</misc> rebels killed in clashes . </response>


DIYARBAKIR , Turkey 1996-08-28

<response> <location>DIYARBAKIR</location> , <location>Turkey</location> 1996-08-28 </response>


Turkish troops killed 25 Kurdish rebels in recent clashes in the east of the country , security officials said on Wednesday .

<response> <misc>Turkish</misc> troops killed 25 <misc>Kurdish</misc> rebels in recent clashes in the east of the country , security officials said on Wednesday . </response>


The emergency rule governor 's office said in a statement that 10 rebels from the Kurdistan Workers Party ( PKK ) were killed in fighting in Tunceli province .

<response> The emergency rule governor 's office said in a statement that 10 rebels from the <organization>Kurdistan Workers Party</organization> ( <organization>PKK</organization> ) were killed in fighting in <location>Tunceli</location> province . </response>


Soldiers killed nine more PKK guerrillas in Sirnak province and six in Hakkari .

<response> Soldiers killed nine more <organization>PKK</organization> guerrillas in <location>Sirnak</location> province and six in <location>Hakkari</location> . </response>


<response> The statement did not report any military casualties and did not say exactly when the clashes took place . </response>


Over 20,000 people have been killed in the PKK 's fight for independence or autonomy in southeastern Turkey .

<response> Over 20,000 people have been killed in the <organization>PKK</organization> 's fight for independence or autonomy in southeastern <location>Turkey</location> . </response>


Israel 's Levy to meet Mubarak in Egypt .

<response> <location>Israel</location> 's <person>Levy</person> to meet <person>Mubarak</person> in <location>Egypt</location> . </response>


JERUSALEM 1996-08-28

<response> <location>JERUSALEM</location> 1996-08-28 </response>


Israeli Foreign Minister David Levy will visit Egypt this Sunday for talks with President Hosni Mubarak , the Foreign Ministry said on Wednesday .

<response> <misc>Israeli</misc> Foreign Minister <person>David Levy</person> will visit <location>Egypt</location> this Sunday for talks with President <person>Hosni Mubarak</person> , the <organization>Foreign Ministry</organization> said on Wednesday . </response>


The trip will be Levy 's first to an Arab state as a minister in Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu 's government .

<response> The trip will be <person>Levy</person> 's first to an <misc>Arab</misc> state as a minister in Prime Minister <person>Benjamin Netanyahu</person> 's government . </response>


FSA qualifies five muni bond issues for insurance .

<response> <organization>FSA</organization> qualifies five muni bond issues for insurance . </response>


NEW YORK 1996-08-28

<response> <location>NEW YORK</location> 1996-08-28 </response>


Financial Security Assurance said Wednesday it qualified for bond insurance the following five municipal issues scheduled for competitive sale today :

<response> <organization>Financial Security Assurance</organization> said Wednesday it qualified for bond insurance the following five municipal issues scheduled for competitive sale today : </response>


-- Paris School District No 7 , Ark .

<response> -- <location>Paris</location> School District No 7 , <location>Ark</location> . </response>


, $ 2.44 million refunding bonds .

<response> , $ 2.44 million refunding bonds . </response>


-- St Ansgar Community School District , Iowa , $ 3.334 million general obligation school bonds .

<response> -- <location>St Ansgar</location> Community School District , <location>Iowa</location> , $ 3.334 million general obligation school bonds . </response>


-- Avalon Borough , N.J. , $ 11.4 million GOs .

<response> -- <location>Avalon Borough</location> , <location>N.J.</location> , $ 11.4 million GOs . </response>


-- Seaford Union Free School District , N.Y. , $ 5 million school bonds .

<response> -- <location>Seaford Union</location> Free School District , <location>N.Y.</location> , $ 5 million school bonds . </response>


-- Akron , Ohio , $ 6.31 million improvement bonds .

<response> -- <location>Akron</location> , <location>Ohio</location> , $ 6.31 million improvement bonds . </response>


-- U.S. Municipal Desk , 212-859-1650

<response> -- <organization>U.S. Municipal Desk</organization> , 212-859-1650 </response>


Colo .

<response> <location>Colo .</location> </response>


taxable health deal rated Aa2 / VMIG-1 - Moody 's .

<response> taxable health deal rated Aa2 / VMIG-1 - <organization>Moody 's</organization> . </response>


NEW YORK 1996-08-28


Moody 's Investors Service -

<response> <organization>Moody 's Investors Service</organization> - </response>


Rating Announcement As of 08/26/96 .

<response> Rating Announcement As of 08/26/96 . </response>


Issuer : Colorado Health Fac .

<response> Issuer : <organization>Colorado Health Fac .</organization> </response>


Auth .

<response> <organization>Auth .</organization> </response>


National


Benevolent Assoc .

<response> <organization>Benevolent Assoc .</organization> </response>


- Colorado Christian Home

<response> - <organization>Colorado Christian Home</organization> </response>


Proj .


Series 1996 B Taxable

<response> Series 1996 B Taxable </response>


State : CO

<response> State : <location>CO</location> </response>


Rating : Aa2 / VMIG 1

<response> Rating : Aa2 / VMIG 1 </response>


Sale Amount : 4,300,000

<response> Sale Amount : 4,300,000 </response>


Expected Sale Date : 08/26/96

<response> Expected Sale Date : 08/26/96 </response>


Lamm will not endorse Perot for Reform ticket-CNN .

<response> <person>Lamm</person> will not endorse <person>Perot</person> for <misc>Reform ticket-CNN</misc> . </response>


WASHINGTON 1996-08-27

<response> <location>WASHINGTON</location> 1996-08-27 </response>


Former Colorado Democratic Gov .

<response> Former <location>Colorado</location> <misc>Democratic</misc> Gov . </response>


Richard Lamm has decided not to endorse Ross Perot as the presidential candidate of the Reform Party , CNN reported late Tuesday .

<response> <person>Richard Lamm</person> has decided not to endorse <person>Ross Perot</person> as the presidential candidate of the <organization>Reform Party</organization> , <organization>CNN</organization> reported late Tuesday . </response>


CNN quoted aides and family members as saying Lamm , who competed with Perot to head the ticket for Perot 's party , had told them he would definitely not endorse Perot , but they did not know whether he would endorse another candidate .

<response> <organization>CNN</organization> quoted aides and family members as saying <person>Lamm</person> , who competed with <person>Perot</person> to head the ticket for <person>Perot</person> 's party , had told them he would definitely not endorse <person>Perot</person> , but they did not know whether he would endorse another candidate . </response>


An announcement was planned in Chicago Wednesday .

<response> An announcement was planned in <location>Chicago</location> Wednesday . </response>


Lamm , 60 , is a three-term Colorado governor who left office in 1987 and vied for the Reform Party nomination after becoming disillusioned with both the Democratic and Republican parties .

<response> <person>Lamm</person> , 60 , is a three-term <location>Colorado</location> governor who left office in 1987 and vied for the <organization>Reform Party</organization> nomination after becoming disillusioned with both the <misc>Democratic</misc> and <misc>Republican</misc> parties . </response>


Lamm is a friend of President Clinton and supported him in the 1992 election .

<response> <person>Lamm</person> is a friend of President <person>Clinton</person> and supported him in the 1992 election . </response>


Perot won his party 's official nomination as its presidential candidate in a secret ballot earlier this month .

<response> <person>Perot</person> won his party 's official nomination as its presidential candidate in a secret ballot earlier this month . </response>


RESEARCH ALERT - Career Horizons said cut .

<response> RESEARCH ALERT - <organization>Career Horizons</organization> said cut . </response>


-- Donaldson Lufkin & Jenrette cut its rating on Career Horizons Inc to market perform from outperform , according to market sources .

<response> -- <organization>Donaldson Lufkin & Jenrette</organization> cut its rating on <organization>Career Horizons Inc</organization> to market perform from outperform , according to market sources . </response>


<response> -- Further details were not immediately available . </response>


-- The stock was up 3/4 at 35-7/8 .

<response> -- The stock was up 3/4 at 35-7/8 . </response>


Northern States Power Co sets payout .

<response> <organization>Northern States Power Co</organization> sets payout . </response>


MINNEAPOLIS 1996-08-28

<response> <location>MINNEAPOLIS</location> 1996-08-28 </response>


Quarterly


Latest Prior


Amount $ 0.69 $ 0.69

<response> Amount $ 0.69 $ 0.69 </response>


Pay Oct 20


Record Oct 1


-- Chicago newsdesk 312 408-8787

<response> -- <location>Chicago</location> newsdesk 312 408-8787 </response>


US investors mull appeal of Lloyd 's decision .

<response> <location>US</location> investors mull appeal of <organization>Lloyd 's</organization> decision . </response>


Patricia Vowinkel

<response> <person>Patricia Vowinkel</person> </response>


NEW YORK 1996-08-27

<response> <location>NEW YORK</location> 1996-08-27 </response>


U.S. investors in troubled Lloyd 's of London were considering late on Tuesday whether to appeal a U.S. court decision in favour of Lloyd 's and pledged to continue pursuing other legal actions .

<response> <location>U.S.</location> investors in troubled <organization>Lloyd 's of London</organization> were considering late on Tuesday whether to appeal a <location>U.S.</location> court decision in favour of <organization>Lloyd 's</organization> and pledged to continue pursuing other legal actions . </response>


A U.S. appeals court on Tuesday gave Lloyd 's a reprieve , throwing out an injunction that the insurance giant said could have led to its collapse .

<response> A <location>U.S.</location> appeals court on Tuesday gave <organization>Lloyd 's</organization> a reprieve , throwing out an injunction that the insurance giant said could have led to its collapse . </response>


A lower court issued the injunction on Friday and ordered Lloyd 's to give investors , known as Names , more information before requiring them to decide whether to accept a settlement offer as part of a reorganisation plan .

<response> A lower court issued the injunction on Friday and ordered <organization>Lloyd 's</organization> to give investors , known as <misc>Names</misc> , more information before requiring them to decide whether to accept a settlement offer as part of a reorganisation plan . </response>


" My prediction is that the Names will appeal , " said Kenneth Chiate , a U.S. Name and a chief negotiator for the American Names Association .

<response> " My prediction is that the <misc>Names</misc> will appeal , " said <person>Kenneth Chiate</person> , a <location>U.S.</location> <misc>Name</misc> and a chief negotiator for the <organization>American Names Association</organization> . </response>


<response> " At this point , it is a sufficiently important decision that I 'm confident that they will appeal , " he said . " </response>


<response> But to say that they definitely will would be premature until we determine what the exact basis for the court 's ruling is . " </response>


Under the reorganisation plan , Lloyd 's plans to reinsure its massive liabilities into a new company called Equitas .

<response> Under the reorganisation plan , <organization>Lloyd 's</organization> plans to reinsure its massive liabilities into a new company called <organization>Equitas</organization> . </response>


The arrangement calls for investors to make additional payments to fund Equitas but also provides them with 3.2 billion stg in compensation to help reduce their prior outstanding liabilities .

<response> The arrangement calls for investors to make additional payments to fund <organization>Equitas</organization> but also provides them with 3.2 billion stg in compensation to help reduce their prior outstanding liabilities . </response>


The Names had been scheduled to decide whether to accept or reject the offer by 1100 GMT Wednesday , but Lloyd 's chairman David Rowland said on Tuesday the offer would be extended .

<response> The <misc>Names</misc> had been scheduled to decide whether to accept or reject the offer by 1100 <misc>GMT</misc> Wednesday , but <organization>Lloyd 's</organization> chairman <person>David Rowland</person> said on Tuesday the offer would be extended . </response>


At least eight U.S. states have still some form of litigation pending , said John Head , spokesman for the Association of Lloyd 's State Chairmen , a group representing U.S. Names .

<response> At least eight <location>U.S.</location> states have still some form of litigation pending , said <person>John Head</person> , spokesman for the <organization>Association of Lloyd 's</organization> State Chairmen , a group representing <location>U.S.</location> <misc>Names</misc> . </response>


" It goes without saying that we 're rather disappointed , " Head said of the decision by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit , sitting in Baltimore .

<response> " It goes without saying that we 're rather disappointed , " <person>Head</person> said of the decision by the <organization>U.S. Court of Appeals</organization> for the <organization>Fourth Circuit</organization> , sitting in <location>Baltimore</location> . </response>


<response> But , he said , " we still have hope that somebody is going to see our point of view in this . " </response>


The Colorado attorney general told Lloyd 's last week it was considering a new legal action against the British insurance market , based on allegations of consumer fraud .

<response> The <location>Colorado</location> attorney general told <organization>Lloyd 's</organization> last week it was considering a new legal action against the <misc>British</misc> insurance market , based on allegations of consumer fraud . </response>


" We have notified them of our concerns and asked them to give us a response , " said Colorado attorney general Gale Norton .

<response> " We have notified them of our concerns and asked them to give us a response , " said <location>Colorado</location> attorney general <person>Gale Norton</person> . </response>


Norton said she was concerned that the Lloyd 's agreement immunizes it from future litigation regarding Equitas and requires that all legal actions be heard outside of Colorado .

<response> <person>Norton</person> said she was concerned that the <organization>Lloyd 's</organization> agreement immunizes it from future litigation regarding <organization>Equitas</organization> and requires that all legal actions be heard outside of <location>Colorado</location> . </response>


<response> In addition , she said she was concerned the plan may not offer investors enough protection from additional , future liabilities . </response>


Meanwhile , an appeal of a lawsuit filed by some 600 Names in California is still pending before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit , Chiate of the American Names Association said .

<response> Meanwhile , an appeal of a lawsuit filed by some 600 <misc>Names</misc> in <location>California</location> is still pending before the <organization>U.S. Court of Appeals</organization> for the <organization>Ninth Circuit</organization> , <person>Chiate</person> of the <organization>American Names Association</organization> said . </response>


That lawsuit , which seeks rescision and restitution , was dismissed in a U.S. district court .

<response> That lawsuit , which seeks rescision and restitution , was dismissed in a <location>U.S.</location> district court . </response>


That case " is what I call the most significant alternate remedy for us , " Chiate said .

<response> That case " is what I call the most significant alternate remedy for us , " <person>Chiate</person> said . </response>


The individual Names , however , now must decide whether to accept Lloyd 's settlement offer or reject the offer and pursue litigation .

<response> The individual <misc>Names</misc> , however , now must decide whether to accept <organization>Lloyd 's</organization> settlement offer or reject the offer and pursue litigation . </response>


Chiate said he has advised Names that " they must make , individually , a risk benefit analysis . "

<response> <person>Chiate</person> said he has advised <misc>Names</misc> that " they must make , individually , a risk benefit analysis . " </response>


Rejection involved forfeiting the compensation offer and risking the possibility of owing Lloyd 's two to three times more than Lloyd 's is now willing to accept , he said .

<response> Rejection involved forfeiting the compensation offer and risking the possibility of owing <organization>Lloyd 's</organization> two to three times more than <organization>Lloyd 's</organization> is now willing to accept , he said . </response>


But , in rejecting the offer , the Names would retain their rights to pursue litigation , he said .

<response> But , in rejecting the offer , the <misc>Names</misc> would retain their rights to pursue litigation , he said . </response>


German police made Nazi gestures , officials say .

<response> <misc>German</misc> police made <misc>Nazi</misc> gestures , officials say . </response>


NUREMBERG , Germany 1996-08-28

<response> <location>NUREMBERG</location> , <location>Germany</location> 1996-08-28 </response>


German riot police made Nazi gestures at a private function earlier this month and may face dismissal for their actions , the Bavarian Interior Ministry said on Wednesday .

<response> <misc>German</misc> riot police made <misc>Nazi</misc> gestures at a private function earlier this month and may face dismissal for their actions , the <misc>Bavarian</misc> <organization>Interior Ministry</organization> said on Wednesday . </response>


The ministry declined to detail gestures the Nuremberg-based policemen had made at the August 13 function but added seven had been suspended from duty pending an internal inquiry .

<response> The ministry declined to detail gestures the <misc>Nuremberg-based</misc> policemen had made at the August 13 function but added seven had been suspended from duty pending an internal inquiry . </response>


A spokesman for public prosecutors in the southern city , where dictator Adolf Hitler held some of his most infamous Nazi party rallies in the 1930s , said there were no plans to prosecute the officers as the gestures had not been made in public .

<response> A spokesman for public prosecutors in the southern city , where dictator <person>Adolf Hitler</person> held some of his most infamous <misc>Nazi</misc> party rallies in the 1930s , said there were no plans to prosecute the officers as the gestures had not been made in public . </response>


<response> Gun-wielding motorist snapped by cool passenger . </response>


BERLIN 1996-08-28

<response> <location>BERLIN</location> 1996-08-28 </response>


A motorist threatened a fellow driver with a starting pistol as he overtook him illegally in the inside lane on a motorway near Berlin and was photographed in the act by the driver 's wife , prosecutors said on Wednesday .

<response> A motorist threatened a fellow driver with a starting pistol as he overtook him illegally in the inside lane on a motorway near <location>Berlin</location> and was photographed in the act by the driver 's wife , prosecutors said on Wednesday . </response>


Prosecutors in the city of Potsdam said the 32-year-old man drew alongside the other car at about 110 kph ( 70 mph ) and aimed his pistol at the driver .

<response> Prosecutors in the city of <location>Potsdam</location> said the 32-year-old man drew alongside the other car at about 110 kph ( 70 mph ) and aimed his pistol at the driver . </response>


<response> But the driver 's wife kept her nerve , got out her camera and photographed him . </response>


<response> The man has been charged with dangerous driving , coercion and threatening behaviour . </response>


German prosecutors file sex tourism charges .

<response> <misc>German</misc> prosecutors file sex tourism charges . </response>


BERLIN 1996-08-28


Berlin prosecutors said on Wednesday they had filed charges against two German men for sexually abusing children in Thailand and distributing pornographic films and pictures of their degrading acts .

<response> <location>Berlin</location> prosecutors said on Wednesday they had filed charges against two <misc>German</misc> men for sexually abusing children in <location>Thailand</location> and distributing pornographic films and pictures of their degrading acts . </response>


The case is one of only a handful in which authorities have managed to track down suspects under a law which lets them pursue Germans who commit sex offences abroad .

<response> The case is one of only a handful in which authorities have managed to track down suspects under a law which lets them pursue <misc>Germans</misc> who commit sex offences abroad . </response>


The pair , identified only as 43-year-old clerk Dieter U and businessman Thomas S , 33 , are alleged to have carried out acts of sexual indecency with children as young as 10 years old between 1994 and 1995 .

<response> The pair , identified only as 43-year-old clerk <person>Dieter U</person> and businessman <person>Thomas S</person> , 33 , are alleged to have carried out acts of sexual indecency with children as young as 10 years old between 1994 and 1995 . </response>


Their videos included pictures of one of the accused tying up a Thai boy and performing acts of sadistic torture on him , prosecutors said in a statement .

<response> Their videos included pictures of one of the accused tying up a <misc>Thai</misc> boy and performing acts of sadistic torture on him , prosecutors said in a statement . </response>


<response> In another scene , a young girl performed oral sex with an unidentified adult man . </response>


<response> The new law was introduced with much fanfare in 1993 . </response>


But prosecutors face huge difficulties in gathering evidence and bringing witnesses to testify in a German court , and only one person has so far been convicted under the law .

<response> But prosecutors face huge difficulties in gathering evidence and bringing witnesses to testify in a <misc>German</misc> court , and only one person has so far been convicted under the law . </response>


<response> Investigators are probing several other cases . </response>


The Berlin prosecutors said they had been alerted to the two men by customs officials who intercepted packages containing pornographic photographs and order forms .

<response> The <location>Berlin</location> prosecutors said they had been alerted to the two men by customs officials who intercepted packages containing pornographic photographs and order forms . </response>


France 's Juppe on official visit to Greece Sep 15 .

<response> <location>France</location> 's <person>Juppe</person> on official visit to <location>Greece</location> Sep 15 . </response>


ATHENS 1996-08-28

<response> <location>ATHENS</location> 1996-08-28 </response>


French Premier Alain Juppe will pay an official visit to Greece on September 15 to celebrate 150 years of the French Archaeological Society , government spokesman Dimitris Reppas said on Wednesday .

<response> <misc>French</misc> Premier <person>Alain Juppe</person> will pay an official visit to <location>Greece</location> on September 15 to celebrate 150 years of the <organization>French Archaeological Society</organization> , government spokesman <person>Dimitris Reppas</person> said on Wednesday . </response>


Juppe will meet Greek Prime Minister Costas Simitis and Foreign Minister Theodoros Pangalos , Reppas told reporters .

<response> <person>Juppe</person> will meet <misc>Greek</misc> Prime Minister <person>Costas Simitis</person> and Foreign Minister <person>Theodoros Pangalos</person> , <person>Reppas</person> told reporters . </response>


" The French premier 's visit was planned to coincide with the Archaeological Society 's celebrations .

<response> " The <misc>French</misc> premier 's visit was planned to coincide with the <organization>Archaeological Society</organization> 's celebrations . </response>


The Greek government was asked for an official meeting with the prime minister and the foreign minister and it said yes , " Reppas said .

<response> The <misc>Greek</misc> government was asked for an official meeting with the prime minister and the foreign minister and it said yes , " <person>Reppas</person> said . </response>


Stork H1 results breakdown per sector .

<response> <organization>Stork</organization> H1 results breakdown per sector . </response>


AMSTERDAM 1996-08-28

<response> <location>AMSTERDAM</location> 1996-08-28 </response>


First 24 weeks 1996

<response> First 24 weeks 1996 </response>


<response> ( millions of guilders unless otherwise stated ) </response>


Industrial systems and components

<response> Industrial systems and components </response>


- Turnover 756 vs 829

<response> - Turnover 756 vs 829 </response>


- Operating profit 46 vs 48

<response> - Operating profit 46 vs 48 </response>


- New orders received 876 vs 933

<response> - New orders received 876 vs 933 </response>


- Order book ( billions ) 1.07 vs 0.98

<response> - Order book ( billions ) 1.07 vs 0.98 </response>


Industrial services

<response> Industrial services </response>


- Turnover 657 vs 700

<response> - Turnover 657 vs 700 </response>


- Operating profit 9 vs 3

<response> - Operating profit 9 vs 3 </response>


<response> - New orders received ( billions ) 1.00 vs 1.09 </response>


- Order book ( billions ) 2.37 vs 2.01

<response> - Order book ( billions ) 2.37 vs 2.01 </response>


<response> NOTE - Order book figures refer to value of orders on books at end of period . </response>


-- Amsterdam newsroom +31 20 504 5000 , Fax +31 20 504 5040

<response> -- <location>Amsterdam</location> newsroom +31 20 504 5000 , Fax +31 20 504 5040 </response>


Stephanie of Monaco 's husband snapped cavorting .

<response> <person>Stephanie</person> of <location>Monaco</location> 's husband snapped cavorting . </response>


ROME 1996-08-28

<response> <location>ROME</location> 1996-08-28 </response>


Two Italian magazines published pictures on Wednesday of Daniel Ducruet , Princess Stephanie of Monaco 's husband and former bodyguard , cavorting naked with another woman by a poolside in France .

<response> Two <misc>Italian</misc> magazines published pictures on Wednesday of <person>Daniel Ducruet</person> , Princess <person>Stephanie</person> of <location>Monaco</location> 's husband and former bodyguard , cavorting naked with another woman by a poolside in <location>France</location> . </response>


The magazines , Eva Tremila and its sister publication Gente , printed up to 26 pages of photos of the woman undressing Ducruet , the pair embracing on a sunbed and finally both naked .

<response> The magazines , <organization>Eva Tremila</organization> and its sister publication <organization>Gente</organization> , printed up to 26 pages of photos of the woman undressing <person>Ducruet</person> , the pair embracing on a sunbed and finally both naked . </response>


Eva Tremila said other even more explicit photos were taken but it did not print them .

<response> <organization>Eva Tremila</organization> said other even more explicit photos were taken but it did not print them . </response>


The magazines named the woman as Fili Houteman , a 26-year-old French singer and dancer in a Belgian cabaret club .

<response> The magazines named the woman as <person>Fili Houteman</person> , a 26-year-old <misc>French</misc> singer and dancer in a <misc>Belgian</misc> cabaret club . </response>


The photographs , an Italian exclusive , raised eyebrows in the tiny principality , where Stephanie 's father Prince Rainier , had long disapproved of his daughter 's choice of husband .

<response> The photographs , an <misc>Italian</misc> exclusive , raised eyebrows in the tiny principality , where <person>Stephanie</person> 's father <person>Prince Rainier</person> , had long disapproved of his daughter 's choice of husband . </response>


Stephanie had two children with Ducruet before their marriage in July last year .

<response> <person>Stephanie</person> had two children with <person>Ducruet</person> before their marriage in July last year . </response>


Stephanie , Caroline and Albert are the children of Rainier and former Hollywood screen goddess Grace Kelly , who was killed in a car crash in 1982 .

<response> <person>Stephanie</person> , <person>Caroline</person> and <person>Albert</person> are the children of <person>Rainier</person> and former <location>Hollywood</location> screen goddess <person>Grace Kelly</person> , who was killed in a car crash in 1982 . </response>


" We have seen the photos but for the moment the palace has no comment , " a spokeswoman for Prince Rainier told Reuters .

<response> " We have seen the photos but for the moment the palace has no comment , " a spokeswoman for <person>Prince Rainier</person> told <organization>Reuters</organization> . </response>


The magazines said the photographs were taken in Cap de Villefranche , some 15 km ( nine miles ) from Monte Carlo .

<response> The magazines said the photographs were taken in <location>Cap de Villefranche</location> , some 15 km ( nine miles ) from <location>Monte Carlo</location> . </response>


Gente said Ducruet , a keen racing driver , met Houteman during a race in Belgium and photographers had been on their trail ever since .

<response> <organization>Gente</organization> said <person>Ducruet</person> , a keen racing driver , met <person>Houteman</person> during a race in <location>Belgium</location> and photographers had been on their trail ever since . </response>


<response> The magazine said video cameras had also been used to film the couple and that a sound-track existed . </response>


Highlights of Wednesday 's Commission briefing .

<response> Highlights of Wednesday 's <organization>Commission</organization> briefing . </response>


BRUSSELS 1996-08-28

<response> <location>BRUSSELS</location> 1996-08-28 </response>


Following are highlights of the midday briefing by the European Commission on Wednesday :

<response> Following are highlights of the midday briefing by the <organization>European Commission</organization> on Wednesday : </response>


In response to a question , Commission spokesman Joao Vale de Almeida said there had been no developments regarding the Commission 's position concerning the dispute with Germany and Saxony over state aid to Volkswagen .

<response> In response to a question , <organization>Commission</organization> spokesman <person>Joao Vale de Almeida</person> said there had been no developments regarding the <organization>Commission</organization> 's position concerning the dispute with <location>Germany</location> and <location>Saxony</location> over state aid to <organization>Volkswagen</organization> . </response>


He said there was some possibility of further talks with Germany before the next Commission meeting of September 4 .

<response> He said there was some possibility of further talks with <location>Germany</location> before the next <organization>Commission</organization> meeting of September 4 . </response>


The Commission released the following documents :

<response> The <organization>Commission</organization> released the following documents : </response>


- IP / 96 / 804 : Commission approves acquisition of Pao de Acucar by Auchan .

<response> - IP / 96 / 804 : <organization>Commission</organization> approves acquisition of <organization>Pao de Acucar</organization> by <organization>Auchan</organization> . </response>


- IP / 96 / 805 : Commission finds acquisition of CAMAT by AGF-IART does not fall under the merger regulation .

<response> - IP / 96 / 805 : <organization>Commission</organization> finds acquisition of <organization>CAMAT</organization> by <organization>AGF-IART</organization> does not fall under the merger regulation . </response>


- IP / 96 / 806 : Commission clears acquisition of Austrian food retail chain Billa by German group Rewe-Handelsgruppe .

<response> - IP / 96 / 806 : <organization>Commission</organization> clears acquisition of <misc>Austrian</misc> food retail chain <organization>Billa</organization> by <misc>German</misc> group <organization>Rewe-Handelsgruppe</organization> . </response>


- SPEECH / 96 / 202 : Speech by European Commissioner Anita Gradin at the World Congress against Sexual Exploitation of Children in Stockholm .

<response> - SPEECH / 96 / 202 : Speech by <misc>European</misc> Commissioner <person>Anita Gradin</person> at the <misc>World Congress against Sexual Exploitation of Children</misc> in <location>Stockholm</location> . </response>


- Eurostat news release 51/96 : March-May 1996 EU industrial production figures .

<response> - <organization>Eurostat</organization> news release 51/96 : March-May 1996 <organization>EU</organization> industrial production figures . </response>


Spanish tomato warriors paint the town red .

<response> <misc>Spanish</misc> tomato warriors paint the town red . </response>


BUNOL , Spain 1996-08-28

<response> <location>BUNOL</location> , <location>Spain</location> 1996-08-28 </response>


Revellers painted the town red on Wednesday as the 1996 edition of the world 's biggest tomato fight began in the eastern Spanish village of Bunol .

<response> Revellers painted the town red on Wednesday as the 1996 edition of the world 's biggest tomato fight began in the eastern <misc>Spanish</misc> village of <location>Bunol</location> . </response>


<response> Thousands of people pelted each other with armfuls of ripe tomatoes as streets , walls and windows were coated in a blood-red wash . </response>


<response> A single firework after midday signalled the start of the fruit-throwing frenzy , during which participants hurl some 100 tonnes of tomatoes trucked in for the occasion . </response>


Local historians say the tradition began in 1945 when disgruntled locals began spontaneously to bombard the priest and mayor at the annual fiesta in Bunol ( pronounced Boo-nee-OL ) .

<response> Local historians say the tradition began in 1945 when disgruntled locals began spontaneously to bombard the priest and mayor at the annual fiesta in <location>Bunol</location> ( pronounced <location>Boo-nee-OL</location> ) . </response>


<response> The festival 's fame has grown and now attracts between 15,000 and 20,000 people , many of them foreigners . </response>


PRESS DIGEST - GREECE - AUG 28 .

<response> PRESS DIGEST - <location>GREECE</location> - AUG 28 . </response>


ATHENS 1996-08-28

<response> <location>ATHENS</location> 1996-08-28 </response>


Leading stories in the Greek financial press :

<response> Leading stories in the <misc>Greek</misc> financial press : </response>


IMERISIA


-- Pre-election debate heats up on economic issues as conservative New Democracy party promises seven measures includind tax relief for farmers and socialist Pasok defends progress on economic convergence with the EU

<response> -- Pre-election debate heats up on economic issues as conservative <organization>New Democracy</organization> party promises seven measures includind tax relief for farmers and socialist <organization>Pasok</organization> defends progress on economic convergence with the <organization>EU</organization> </response>


<response> -- Finance ministry scrambles to find temporary solution to regulation which slaps a 15 percent tax rate on gains from trading of bonds and coupons by mutual funds </response>


<response> -- Finance ministry will cut 12-month T-bill rate by 10 basis points to 12.70 percent in the upcoming end August issue </response>


FINANCIAL KATHIMERINI

<response> <organization>FINANCIAL KATHIMERINI</organization> </response>


<response> -- Inflows of more than $ 500 million are seen in the interbank market and the bourse in the last three days reflecting confidence in the post-election economic policy </response>


-- Athens Metro subway project hits snags which could delay delivery to the year 2000 and overshoot the original budgeted cost of 520 billion drachmas

<response> -- <organization>Athens Metro</organization> subway project hits snags which could delay delivery to the year 2000 and overshoot the original budgeted cost of 520 billion drachmas </response>


-- State National Bank of Greece will start real auction programme September 9 to lighten up on its real estate holdings

<response> -- <organization>State National Bank of Greece</organization> will start real auction programme September 9 to lighten up on its real estate holdings </response>


KERDOS


-- New Democracy leader Miltiadis Evert vows support mesures for farmers and small business as he kicks off the conservative party 's campaign

<response> -- <organization>New Democracy</organization> leader <person>Miltiadis Evert</person> vows support mesures for farmers and small business as he kicks off the conservative party 's campaign </response>


-- National Economy Minister Yannos Papandoniou defends " hard drachma " foreign exchange policy , says it wo n't change

<response> -- National Economy Minister <person>Yannos Papandoniou</person> defends " hard drachma " foreign exchange policy , says it wo n't change </response>


EXPRESS


-- Message of unity from the conservative New Democracy party as former prime minister Constantine Mitsotakis and Miltiadis Evert shake hands

<response> -- Message of unity from the conservative <organization>New Democracy</organization> party as former prime minister <person>Constantine Mitsotakis</person> and <person>Miltiadis Evert</person> shake hands </response>


NAFTEMBORIKI


<response> -- Government defends " hard drachma " policy , says it will continue unchanged after the elections </response>


-- Conservative opposition New Democracy promises series of measures on the economy 30 days after the elections aiming at 4.0 percent GDP growth rate annually -- George Georgiopoulos , Athens Newsroom +301 3311812-4

<response> -- Conservative opposition <organization>New Democracy</organization> promises series of measures on the economy 30 days after the elections aiming at 4.0 percent GDP growth rate annually -- <person>George Georgiopoulos</person> , <organization>Athens Newsroom</organization> +301 3311812-4 </response>


HOEK LOOS H1 NET PROFIT 28.9 MLN GUILDERS .

<response> <organization>HOEK LOOS</organization> H1 NET PROFIT 28.9 MLN GUILDERS . </response>


AMSTERDAM 1996-08-28

<response> <location>AMSTERDAM</location> 1996-08-28 </response>


First half 1996


<response> ( in millions of guilders unless otherwise stated ) </response>


Net per shr ( guilders ) 4.38 vs 3.70

<response> Net per shr ( guilders ) 4.38 vs 3.70 </response>


Net profit 28.9 vs 24.5

<response> Net profit 28.9 vs 24.5 </response>


Turnover 273.6 vs 290.3

<response> Turnover 273.6 vs 290.3 </response>


Operating profit 44.4 vs 40.7

<response> Operating profit 44.4 vs 40.7 </response>


Note - Industrial gases maker Hoek Loos NV .

<response> Note - Industrial gases maker <organization>Hoek Loos NV</organization> . </response>


Interest charges 2.20 vs 5.05

<response> Interest charges 2.20 vs 5.05 </response>


Tax 13.26 vs 11.16

<response> Tax 13.26 vs 11.16 </response>


-- Amsterdam newsroom +31 20 504 5000 , Fax +31 20 504 5040

<response> -- <location>Amsterdam</location> newsroom +31 20 504 5000 , Fax +31 20 504 5040 </response>


Stagecoach sees Swebus deal agreed next week .

<response> <organization>Stagecoach</organization> sees <organization>Swebus</organization> deal agreed next week . </response>


LONDON 1996-08-28

<response> <location>LONDON</location> 1996-08-28 </response>


British bus and passenger rail operator Stagecoach Holdings Plc said on Wednesday that its negotiations to acquire Swedish long distance bus operator Swebus AB were set to lead to a signed agreement next week .

<response> <misc>British</misc> bus and passenger rail operator <organization>Stagecoach Holdings Plc</organization> said on Wednesday that its negotiations to acquire <misc>Swedish</misc> long distance bus operator <organization>Swebus AB</organization> were set to lead to a signed agreement next week . </response>


Four weeks ago Stagecoach said it had agreed the deal in principle , and it expected to pay 110 million stg-plus for the firm , with Swebus ' current owner , the state railway company .

<response> Four weeks ago <organization>Stagecoach</organization> said it had agreed the deal in principle , and it expected to pay 110 million stg-plus for the firm , with <organization>Swebus</organization> ' current owner , the state railway company . </response>


" The directors report that negotiations with the vendors of Swebus AB are proceeding and they expect an agreement ( conditional on shareholder approval ) will be signed next week , " Stagecoach said in a statement .

<response> " The directors report that negotiations with the vendors of <organization>Swebus AB</organization> are proceeding and they expect an agreement ( conditional on shareholder approval ) will be signed next week , " <organization>Stagecoach</organization> said in a statement . </response>


-- London Newsroom +44 171 542 7717

<response> -- <organization>London Newsroom</organization> +44 171 542 7717 </response>


NZ bills gain ground after see-saw session .

<response> <location>NZ</location> bills gain ground after see-saw session . </response>


WELLINGTON 1996-08-28

<response> <location>WELLINGTON</location> 1996-08-28 </response>


0515 GMT

<response> 0515 <misc>GMT</misc> </response>


The New Zealand money market gained slightly at Wednesday 's close after what dealers described as a see-saw trading session .

<response> The <location>New Zealand</location> money market gained slightly at Wednesday 's close after what dealers described as a see-saw trading session . </response>


<response> Ninety-day bank bill rates shed five points to 9.93 percent and September bank bill futures rose four to 90.18 . </response>


However , bonds finished largely flat .

<response> However , bonds finished largely flat . </response>


<response> " Our bonds were better bid initially but they sold off on a lack of demand , and the short end went with it too on a lower currency . </response>


<response> " There were big buyers at the base of where the market sold to , and when the currency got bought back on talk of a samurai the market got bought back again , " a dealer said . </response>


<response> Volumes were reasonable in the money market but thin in bonds . </response>


<response> Dealers said the market seemed to be trading a range and would wait for more political polls to provide direction . </response>


<response> They were confident of further eurokiwi issuance but said the timing was less of a certainty . </response>


-- Wellington newsroom ( 64 4 ) 473 4746

<response> -- <location>Wellington</location> newsroom ( 64 4 ) 473 4746 </response>


RTRS - Guinness Peat expects strong full yr .

<response> <organization>RTRS</organization> - <organization>Guinness Peat</organization> expects strong full yr . </response>


SYDNEY 1996-08-28

<response> <location>SYDNEY</location> 1996-08-28 </response>


British-based investment company Guinness Peat Group Plc ( GPG ) said on Wednesday it expected a strong full year result .

<response> <misc>British-based</misc> investment company <organization>Guinness Peat Group Plc</organization> ( <organization>GPG</organization> ) said on Wednesday it expected a strong full year result . </response>


" We think we 're in a position to produce a strong result , however a lot of our profitability must inevitably depend on a number of ( company ) results , " said GPG director Garry Weiss .

<response> " We think we 're in a position to produce a strong result , however a lot of our profitability must inevitably depend on a number of ( company ) results , " said <organization>GPG</organization> director <person>Garry Weiss</person> . </response>


GPG earlier said its net profit for the six months to June 30 rose to 9.77 million pounds from 6.93 million in the previous first half .

<response> <organization>GPG</organization> earlier said its net profit for the six months to June 30 rose to 9.77 million pounds from 6.93 million in the previous first half . </response>


<response> The company did not declare an interim dividend as in the previous year . </response>


Weiss said the Australian share market had been somewhat negative for much of 1996 and this had some effect on the company 's first half results .

<response> <person>Weiss</person> said the <misc>Australian</misc> share market had been somewhat negative for much of 1996 and this had some effect on the company 's first half results . </response>


<response> " However , it certainly is a very pleasing result for the first six months , " he said . </response>