Colombo has said it believes Tamil rebels , fighting a 13-year war for independence against the government , finance their military activity through funds extorted from expatriate Sri Lankans in western countries such as the United States .

<response> <location>Colombo</location> has said it believes <misc>Tamil</misc> rebels , fighting a 13-year war for independence against the government , finance their military activity through funds extorted from expatriate <misc>Sri Lankans</misc> in western countries such as the <location>United States</location> . </response>


U.S. embassy officials in Colombo were not immediately available to comment on the report .

<response> <location>U.S.</location> embassy officials in <location>Colombo</location> were not immediately available to comment on the report . </response>


Colombo estimates more than 50,000 people have been killed in the war between government forces and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam rebels in the island 's north and east .

<response> <location>Colombo</location> estimates more than 50,000 people have been killed in the war between government forces and the <organization>Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam</organization> rebels in the island 's north and east . </response>


Nepal 's king leaves on week-long visit to China .

<response> <location>Nepal</location> 's king leaves on week-long visit to <location>China</location> . </response>


KATHMANDU 1996-08-23

<response> <location>KATHMANDU</location> 1996-08-23 </response>


King Birendra left Nepal on Friday for a week-long visit to China , his eighth since ascending the throne in 1972 , officials said .

<response> King <person>Birendra</person> left <location>Nepal</location> on Friday for a week-long visit to <location>China</location> , his eighth since ascending the throne in 1972 , officials said . </response>


The constitutional monarch , who last visited China in 1993 , was scheduled to meet Chinese President Jiang Zemin and Premier Li Peng during his visit , they said .

<response> The constitutional monarch , who last visited <location>China</location> in 1993 , was scheduled to meet <misc>Chinese</misc> President <person>Jiang Zemin</person> and Premier <person>Li Peng</person> during his visit , they said . </response>


Foreign ministry officials gave no details of the issues the king , who was accompanied by Foreign Minister Prakash Chandra Lohani , would discuss with Chinese leaders .

<response> Foreign ministry officials gave no details of the issues the king , who was accompanied by Foreign Minister <person>Prakash Chandra Lohani</person> , would discuss with <misc>Chinese</misc> leaders . </response>


The Himalayan kingdom , sandwiched between China and India , has traditionally sought to maintain close cooperation with its giant neighbours , and an equal distance from the two .

<response> The <misc>Himalayan</misc> kingdom , sandwiched between <location>China</location> and <location>India</location> , has traditionally sought to maintain close cooperation with its giant neighbours , and an equal distance from the two . </response>


The 50-year old monarch was accompanied by Queen Aishwarya on a flight to the Tibetan capital of Lhasa .

<response> The 50-year old monarch was accompanied by Queen <person>Aishwarya</person> on a flight to the <misc>Tibetan</misc> capital of <location>Lhasa</location> . </response>


The king will visit Chongqing before arriving in the Chinese capital , Beijing , early next week , officials said .

<response> The king will visit <location>Chongqing</location> before arriving in the <misc>Chinese</misc> capital , <location>Beijing</location> , early next week , officials said . </response>


Nepal man held for keeping child servant in chains .

<response> <location>Nepal</location> man held for keeping child servant in chains . </response>


KATHMANDU 1996-08-23


Nepali police said on Friday they arrested a man who allegedly kept a child servant bound in chains so that he would not run away when his employer was out to work .

<response> <misc>Nepali</misc> police said on Friday they arrested a man who allegedly kept a child servant bound in chains so that he would not run away when his employer was out to work . </response>


Madhusudan Munakarmi was arrested on Thursday after his neighbours informed police about the plight of 12-year old Dhiraj K.C. , who told police his employer used to tie him up with iron chains and locks concealed under his clothes .

<response> <person>Madhusudan Munakarmi</person> was arrested on Thursday after his neighbours informed police about the plight of 12-year old <person>Dhiraj K.C.</person> , who told police his employer used to tie him up with iron chains and locks concealed under his clothes . </response>


The neighbours in Kathmandu called the police when they saw Dheeraj , employed by the man for the past nine months , limping because of the chains .

<response> The neighbours in <location>Kathmandu</location> called the police when they saw <person>Dheeraj</person> , employed by the man for the past nine months , limping because of the chains . </response>


" I feared he would flee from work or steal my belongings , " the Kathmandu Post newspaper quoted Munakarmi as saying after his arrest .

<response> " I feared he would flee from work or steal my belongings , " the <organization>Kathmandu Post</organization> newspaper quoted <person>Munakarmi</person> as saying after his arrest . </response>


If convicted , he faces a maximum of three years in jail under Nepal 's child protection laws .

<response> If convicted , he faces a maximum of three years in jail under <location>Nepal</location> 's child protection laws . </response>


OPTIONS - Euro debt vols seen regrouping after fall .

<response> OPTIONS - <misc>Euro</misc> debt vols seen regrouping after fall . </response>


LONDON 1996-08-23

<response> <location>LONDON</location> 1996-08-23 </response>


Implied volatility of European bond and interest rate options should stabilise around current levels until early next week after falling before and after this week 's German-led cut in interest rates , traders said .

<response> Implied volatility of <misc>European</misc> bond and interest rate options should stabilise around current levels until early next week after falling before and after this week 's <misc>German-led</misc> cut in interest rates , traders said . </response>


" Volatility has come off a lot .

<response> " Volatility has come off a lot . </response>


We 're looking for it to stabilise now , " said one Euromark options trader at a U.S. bank .

<response> We 're looking for it to stabilise now , " said one <misc>Euromark</misc> options trader at a <location>U.S.</location> bank . </response>


A trader at a Japanese bank said Euromark volatility now stood at 14.00 for September contract , 16.75 for December , 19.50 for March and 21.25 for June .

<response> A trader at a <misc>Japanese</misc> bank said <misc>Euromark</misc> volatility now stood at 14.00 for September contract , 16.75 for December , 19.50 for March and 21.25 for June . </response>


<response> This compared with midweek levels , before the welter of interest rate cuts , of 18.50 for September , 20.00 for December , 22.00 for March and 23.5 for June , he said . </response>


At 1347 GMT , December Euromark futures were trading at 96.78 , two basis points down on the day .

<response> At 1347 <misc>GMT</misc> , December <misc>Euromark</misc> futures were trading at 96.78 , two basis points down on the day . </response>


<response> He said the sell-off in June vols might have been overdone , which could offer value at current levels . </response>


<response> He said caps and floors would be well bid after the round of interest rate cuts due to the fact these rates should stay low at the short end . </response>


The size of the Bundesbank 's repo rate cut , to 3.00 percent from 3.30 percent , took markets by surprise .

<response> The size of the <organization>Bundesbank</organization> 's repo rate cut , to 3.00 percent from 3.30 percent , took markets by surprise . </response>


<response> " Volatility has a bid to it -- longer-dated volatility more than short-dated because the event people were buying for has passed and now perhaps people will sell some short dated vol and buy some long dated vol , " he said . </response>


<response> " Long dated volatility has been low this year , so it is still at levels which are not historically high . </response>


<response> " It is not a dangerous level to own vol. You are not going to lose a lot and you could make quite a bit . " </response>


He said volatility levels should be stable until markets reassess the situation after a long weekend in Britain .

<response> He said volatility levels should be stable until markets reassess the situation after a long weekend in <location>Britain</location> . </response>


Paribas Capital Markets OTC options specialist Robert Coughlan said that if volatility continued lower for the rest of Friday in over-the-counter 10-year Bunds , it should be higher next Tuesday .

<response> <organization>Paribas Capital Markets OTC</organization> options specialist <person>Robert Coughlan</person> said that if volatility continued lower for the rest of Friday in over-the-counter 10-year <misc>Bunds</misc> , it should be higher next Tuesday . </response>


He said the absence on holiday of many market makers was a main factor behind falls this week in volatility in high-yielding markets such as Italy , Spain and Sweden .

<response> He said the absence on holiday of many market makers was a main factor behind falls this week in volatility in high-yielding markets such as <location>Italy</location> , <location>Spain</location> and <location>Sweden</location> . </response>


Coughlan said the market had more downside than upside potential , but a fall was not likely to be of significant size .

<response> <person>Coughlan</person> said the market had more downside than upside potential , but a fall was not likely to be of significant size . </response>


" I recommend people sell strangles in a number of markets -- in Germany and France in particular .

<response> " I recommend people sell strangles in a number of markets -- in <location>Germany</location> and <location>France</location> in particular . </response>


" With high-yielding markets Italy will be a lot more vulnerable in September on economic and political fronts , so I would use current the low level of vol to buy options .

<response> " With high-yielding markets <location>Italy</location> will be a lot more vulnerable in September on economic and political fronts , so I would use current the low level of vol to buy options . </response>


" So sell options on Bunds and France to enhance yield and buy options on Italy , " Coughlan said ..

<response> " So sell options on <misc>Bunds</misc> and <location>France</location> to enhance yield and buy options on <location>Italy</location> , " <person>Coughlan</person> said .. </response>


-- Stephen Nisbet , International Bonds +44 171 542 6320

<response> -- <person>Stephen Nisbet</person> , <organization>International Bonds</organization> +44 171 542 6320 </response>


Goldman Sachs sets warrants on Continental .

<response> <organization>Goldman Sachs</organization> sets warrants on <organization>Continental</organization> . </response>


LONDON 1996-08-23

<response> <location>LONDON</location> 1996-08-23 </response>


Goldman Sachs & Co Wertpapier GmbH has issued a total of five million American-style call warrants , on Continental AG , lead manager Goldman Sachs & Co said .

<response> <organization>Goldman Sachs & Co Wertpapier GmbH</organization> has issued a total of five million <misc>American-style</misc> call warrants , on <organization>Continental AG</organization> , lead manager <organization>Goldman Sachs & Co</organization> said . </response>


One warrant controls one share .

<response> One warrant controls one share . </response>


STRIKE PRICE 25.00 DEM PREMIUM 10.12 PCT

<response> STRIKE PRICE 25.00 <misc>DEM</misc> PREMIUM 10.12 PCT </response>


ISSUE PRICE 2.42 DEM GEARING 10.29 X

<response> ISSUE PRICE 2.42 <misc>DEM</misc> GEARING 10.29 X </response>


<response> EXERCISE PERIOD 02.SEP.96-21.NOV.97 PAYDATE 30.AUG.96 </response>


LISTING DDF FFT STG MIN EXER LOT 100

<response> LISTING DDF FFT STG MIN EXER LOT 100 </response>


SPOT REFERENCE 24.90 DEM

<response> SPOT REFERENCE 24.90 <misc>DEM</misc> </response>


-- Reuter London Newsroom +44 171 542 7658

<response> -- <organization>Reuter London Newsroom</organization> +44 171 542 7658 </response>


Legal challenge to Diana delayed by jail term .

<response> Legal challenge to <person>Diana</person> delayed by jail term . </response>


LONDON 1996-08-23


A British photographer branded a stalker by Princess Diana has been forced to postpone a legal challenge to a ban on approaching her because he 's been jailed for criminal damage , his lawyer said on Friday .

<response> A <misc>British</misc> photographer branded a stalker by Princess <person>Diana</person> has been forced to postpone a legal challenge to a ban on approaching her because he 's been jailed for criminal damage , his lawyer said on Friday . </response>


Martin Stenning started a 12-week jail sentence on Thursday just as he was preparing to contest an injunction obtained by Diana banning him from coming within 300 metres ( yards ) of her .

<response> <person>Martin Stenning</person> started a 12-week jail sentence on Thursday just as he was preparing to contest an injunction obtained by <person>Diana</person> banning him from coming within 300 metres ( yards ) of her . </response>


" We were in the process of preparing a detailed affidavit responding to the Princess 's affadavit and expected to go to court in the next couple of weeks , " said Stenning 's lawyer , Benedict Birnberg . "

<response> " We were in the process of preparing a detailed affidavit responding to the Princess 's affadavit and expected to go to court in the next couple of weeks , " said <person>Stenning</person> 's lawyer , <person>Benedict Birnberg</person> . " </response>


<response> But everything has been put on ice now . " </response>


Birnberg told Reuters that the challenge to the injunction would be delayed until Stenning was released .

<response> <person>Birnberg</person> told <organization>Reuters</organization> that the challenge to the injunction would be delayed until <person>Stenning</person> was released . </response>


Stenning threw a brick through the window of a van in February after an argument with a driver when he was working as a motorcycle dispatch rider .

<response> <person>Stenning</person> threw a brick through the window of a van in February after an argument with a driver when he was working as a motorcycle dispatch rider . </response>


Stenning , who has previous convictions , is expected to appeal against the sentence .

<response> <person>Stenning</person> , who has previous convictions , is expected to appeal against the sentence . </response>


<response> Magistrates also ordered him to pay compensation of 182 pounds ( $ 282 ) . </response>


The freelance photographer was branded a stalker by Diana , whose divorce from heir-to-the-throne Prince Charles is due to become final next week , after persistently trailing her on his motorcycle .

<response> The freelance photographer was branded a stalker by <person>Diana</person> , whose divorce from heir-to-the-throne Prince <person>Charles</person> is due to become final next week , after persistently trailing her on his motorcycle . </response>


In an affidavit , the princess said that in chasing her Stenning had got so close that he twice smashed into her car and pushed her when she tried to remove the film from his camera .

<response> In an affidavit , the princess said that in chasing her <person>Stenning</person> had got so close that he twice smashed into her car and pushed her when she tried to remove the film from his camera . </response>


Stenning has rejected Diana 's claims and said he was being made a scapegoat to scare off press photographers .

<response> <person>Stenning</person> has rejected <person>Diana</person> 's claims and said he was being made a scapegoat to scare off press photographers . </response>


Jordan expels Iraqi diplomat .

<response> <location>Jordan</location> expels <misc>Iraqi</misc> diplomat . </response>


AMMAN 1996-08-23

<response> <location>AMMAN</location> 1996-08-23 </response>


Jordan has asked an Iraqi diplomat to leave the kingdom for carrying out duties incompatible with diplomatic norms , an official source said on Friday .

<response> <location>Jordan</location> has asked an <misc>Iraqi</misc> diplomat to leave the kingdom for carrying out duties incompatible with diplomatic norms , an official source said on Friday . </response>


The move came after Amman blamed Iraq and a pro-Baghdad local political party for last week 's worst unrest in seven years after a government decision to double prices of bread .

<response> The move came after <location>Amman</location> blamed <location>Iraq</location> and a <misc>pro-Baghdad</misc> local political party for last week 's worst unrest in seven years after a government decision to double prices of bread . </response>


The government declined comment .

<response> The government declined comment . </response>


" Jordan has asked Mr. Adel Ibrahim , the Iraqi embassy 's press attache , to leave because he was carrying out duties incompatible with diplomatic norms , " the source told Reuters .

<response> " <location>Jordan</location> has asked Mr. <person>Adel Ibrahim</person> , the <misc>Iraqi</misc> embassy 's press attache , to leave because he was carrying out duties incompatible with diplomatic norms , " the source told <organization>Reuters</organization> . </response>


He said Ibrahim was still in Amman .

<response> He said <person>Ibrahim</person> was still in <location>Amman</location> . </response>


The Jordanian Arab Socialist Baath Party has denied involvement in unrest which it blamed on government policies and rising economic hardship .

<response> The <organization>Jordanian Arab Socialist Baath Party</organization> has denied involvement in unrest which it blamed on government policies and rising economic hardship . </response>


The riots , which shook Jordan for two days , broke out after last Friday 's main prayers in the southern town of Karak and spread to Amman .

<response> The riots , which shook <location>Jordan</location> for two days , broke out after last Friday 's main prayers in the southern town of <location>Karak</location> and spread to <location>Amman</location> . </response>


Kurd rebels to free Turkish soldier prisoners .

<response> <misc>Kurd</misc> rebels to free <misc>Turkish</misc> soldier prisoners . </response>


DOHUK , Iraq 1996-08-23

<response> <location>DOHUK</location> , <location>Iraq</location> 1996-08-23 </response>


Turkish Kurd guerrillas said on Friday they would free seven Turkish soldiers they hold in northern Iraq under a tentative Islamist peace bid .

<response> <misc>Turkish Kurd</misc> guerrillas said on Friday they would free seven <misc>Turkish</misc> soldiers they hold in northern <location>Iraq</location> under a tentative <misc>Islamist</misc> peace bid . </response>


" ...For the sake of safety we are asking for their family members or the authorities to come and pick them up , " Kurdistan Workers Party ( PKK ) central committee member Riza Altun told journalists near the Iraqi city of Dohuk .

<response> " ...For the sake of safety we are asking for their family members or the authorities to come and pick them up , " <organization>Kurdistan Workers Party</organization> ( <organization>PKK</organization> ) central committee member <person>Riza Altun</person> told journalists near the <misc>Iraqi</misc> city of <location>Dohuk</location> . </response>


PKK guerrillas would accompany the soldiers , captured last spring in one of Turkey 's frequent cross-border drives , until they could be handed over , he said .

<response> <organization>PKK</organization> guerrillas would accompany the soldiers , captured last spring in one of <location>Turkey</location> 's frequent cross-border drives , until they could be handed over , he said . </response>


Their release has been negotiated by Islamist writer Ismail Nacar as part of a wider effort , partly backed by Prime Minister Necmettin Erbakan , to find a political solution to Turkey 's Kurdish problem .

<response> Their release has been negotiated by <misc>Islamist</misc> writer <person>Ismail Nacar</person> as part of a wider effort , partly backed by Prime Minister <person>Necmettin Erbakan</person> , to find a political solution to <location>Turkey</location> 's <misc>Kurdish</misc> problem . </response>


Erbakan has encouraged Nacar 's bid but has ruled out direct talks with the rebels .

<response> <person>Erbakan</person> has encouraged <person>Nacar</person> 's bid but has ruled out direct talks with the rebels . </response>


The PKK often uses bases in northern Iraq in its fight for autonomy or independence in southeast Turkey .

<response> The <organization>PKK</organization> often uses bases in northern <location>Iraq</location> in its fight for autonomy or independence in southeast <location>Turkey</location> . </response>


More than 20,000 people have died in 12 years of fighting between the guerrillas and Turkish forces .

<response> More than 20,000 people have died in 12 years of fighting between the guerrillas and <misc>Turkish</misc> forces . </response>


SOLIDERE shares mixed on market .

<response> <organization>SOLIDERE</organization> shares mixed on market . </response>


BEIRUT 1996-08-23

<response> <location>BEIRUT</location> 1996-08-23 </response>


SOLIDERE shares were mixed on Friday on the privately-operated Beirut Secondary Market ( BSM ) .

<response> <organization>SOLIDERE</organization> shares were mixed on Friday on the privately-operated <organization>Beirut Secondary Market</organization> ( <organization>BSM</organization> ) . </response>


A shares -- distributed to former holders of property rights in the Beirut central district SOLIDERE is rebuilding -- closed at $ 104.625 unchanged from Thursday .

<response> A shares -- distributed to former holders of property rights in the <location>Beirut</location> central district <organization>SOLIDERE</organization> is rebuilding -- closed at $ 104.625 unchanged from Thursday . </response>


<response> B shares -- issued in a $ 650-million subscription in January 1994 -- rose to $ 106.5 from $ 106.375 a day earlier . </response>


Turnover on BSM , which trades only SOLIDERE shares , was 8,049 shares from Thursday 's 8,757 and value was $ 850,968 from $ 918,288 .

<response> Turnover on <organization>BSM</organization> , which trades only <organization>SOLIDERE</organization> shares , was 8,049 shares from Thursday 's 8,757 and value was $ 850,968 from $ 918,288 . </response>


On the official Beirut Stock Exchange , only 1,185 Ciments Libanais shares were traded at $ 1.1875 compared with 2,036 shares traded on Thursday at the same price .

<response> On the official <organization>Beirut Stock Exchange</organization> , only 1,185 <organization>Ciments Libanais</organization> shares were traded at $ 1.1875 compared with 2,036 shares traded on Thursday at the same price . </response>


There was no trade in any of the three other listed companies : Ciments Blancs , Eternit and Uniceramic .

<response> There was no trade in any of the three other listed companies : <organization>Ciments Blancs</organization> , <organization>Eternit</organization> and <organization>Uniceramic</organization> . </response>


The BLOM Stock Index which covers both markets rose 0.04 percent to 903.09 and the LISPI index rose 0.02 percent to 81.58 .

<response> The <misc>BLOM Stock Index</misc> which covers both markets rose 0.04 percent to 903.09 and the <misc>LISPI</misc> index rose 0.02 percent to 81.58 . </response>


- Beirut editorial ( 961 1 ) 864148 353078 861723

<response> - <location>Beirut</location> editorial ( 961 1 ) 864148 353078 861723 </response>


Zenith lands $ 1 billion contract , plans $ 100 million plant .

<response> <organization>Zenith</organization> lands $ 1 billion contract , plans $ 100 million plant . </response>


Susan Nadeau

<response> <person>Susan Nadeau</person> </response>


CHICAGO 1996-08-22

<response> <location>CHICAGO</location> 1996-08-22 </response>


A consortium of telephone companies and The Walt Disney Co .

<response> A consortium of telephone companies and <organization>The Walt Disney Co</organization> . </response>


said Thursday it had signed a $ 1 billion contract with Zenith to make digital televison set-top boxes for its home entertainment service .

<response> said Thursday it had signed a $ 1 billion contract with <organization>Zenith</organization> to make digital televison set-top boxes for its home entertainment service . </response>


The announcement of the contract for 3 million set-top boxes gave new hope to Zenith , which has struggled with years of losses .

<response> The announcement of the contract for 3 million set-top boxes gave new hope to <organization>Zenith</organization> , which has struggled with years of losses . </response>


" This really indicates we 're back in the business , " William Luehrs , president of the Glenview , Ill.-based company 's Networks Services Division , said in a telephone interview . "

<response> " This really indicates we 're back in the business , " <person>William Luehrs</person> , president of the <location>Glenview</location> , <misc>Ill.-based</misc> company 's <organization>Networks Services Division</organization> , said in a telephone interview . " </response>


<response> Anytime somebody gets the opportunity to enter the next era with such a big bang has got to be seen as a strong message to the industry . " </response>


Following the announcement , Zenith 's stock soared $ 5.50 to $ 16.875 on the New York Stock Exchange .

<response> Following the announcement , <organization>Zenith</organization> 's stock soared $ 5.50 to $ 16.875 on the <organization>New York Stock Exchange</organization> . </response>


The consortium , called Americast , said the contract was part of its strategy to develop and market the next generation in home entertainment .

<response> The consortium , called <organization>Americast</organization> , said the contract was part of its strategy to develop and market the next generation in home entertainment . </response>


In addition to Disney , Americast 's partners are phone companies Ameritech Corp. , BellSouth Corp. , GTE Corp. and SBC Communications .

<response> In addition to <organization>Disney</organization> , <organization>Americast</organization> 's partners are phone companies <organization>Ameritech Corp.</organization> , <organization>BellSouth Corp.</organization> , <organization>GTE Corp.</organization> and <organization>SBC Communications</organization> . </response>


Americast said Southern New England Telecommunications Corp. has signed a letter of intent to join the group , which plans to provide a home entertainment service similar to cable television .

<response> <organization>Americast</organization> said <organization>Southern New England Telecommunications Corp.</organization> has signed a letter of intent to join the group , which plans to provide a home entertainment service similar to cable television . </response>


Zenith also said it planned to build a new $ 100 million plant in Woodridge , Ill .

<response> <organization>Zenith</organization> also said it planned to build a new $ 100 million plant in <location>Woodridge</location> , <location>Ill</location> . </response>


<response> , to make picture tubes for 32- and 35-inch screen TV sets . </response>


<response> The company currently buys the tubes from competitors . </response>


The new plant , which is dependent on obtaining financing , will create about 280 new jobs , Zenith said .

<response> The new plant , which is dependent on obtaining financing , will create about 280 new jobs , <organization>Zenith</organization> said . </response>


<response> The contract calls for production of the set-top boxes over five years . </response>


Luehrs said manufacturing will begin and revenue will start to roll in during the first half of next year .

<response> <person>Luehrs</person> said manufacturing will begin and revenue will start to roll in during the first half of next year . </response>


<response> The boxes will be made on a build-to-order basis . </response>


Zenith will convert its Chihuahua , Mexico , analogue set-top box plant to manufacture the digital boxes .

<response> <organization>Zenith</organization> will convert its <location>Chihuahua</location> , <location>Mexico</location> , analogue set-top box plant to manufacture the digital boxes . </response>


Luehrs declined to say when the operation was expected to be profitable .

<response> <person>Luehrs</person> declined to say when the operation was expected to be profitable . </response>


Americast will provide the boxes to subscribers as part of the service .

<response> <organization>Americast</organization> will provide the boxes to subscribers as part of the service . </response>


Its service is being introduced in selected markets across the United States .

<response> Its service is being introduced in selected markets across the <location>United States</location> . </response>


Luehrs said digital technology in set-top boxes is only the beginning and said the technology will eventually show up in retail consumer electronics .

<response> <person>Luehrs</person> said digital technology in set-top boxes is only the beginning and said the technology will eventually show up in retail consumer electronics . </response>


<response> " We 'll build a lot of these devices into television sets , for digital television , " he said . " </response>


Although that is not where this particular contract is headed , the fact that there is a strong Zenith presence will pay us dividends in the future . "

<response> Although that is not where this particular contract is headed , the fact that there is a strong <organization>Zenith</organization> presence will pay us dividends in the future . " </response>


Zenith has been plagued by generally soft conditions in the colour television industry , reporting full-year losses since 1989 .

<response> <organization>Zenith</organization> has been plagued by generally soft conditions in the colour television industry , reporting full-year losses since 1989 . </response>


<response> Last month , it reported a second-quarter loss of $ 33.2 million , or 51 cents a share , vs. a loss of $ 45.3 million , or 97 cents a share , a year earlier . </response>


Last November , South Korea-based LG Electronics Inc. bought a majority stake in Zenith .

<response> Last November , <misc>South Korea-based</misc> <organization>LG Electronics Inc.</organization> bought a majority stake in <organization>Zenith</organization> . </response>


Robert Gutenstein , an analyst for Kalf , Voorhis & Co .

<response> <person>Robert Gutenstein</person> , an analyst for <organization>Kalf , Voorhis & Co</organization> . </response>


<response> , said the contract was " not unique , but it 's big . " </response>


<response> " Digital is coming , it 's economic and the question is what will make the consumer happy and at what price . " </response>


Natural Law Party says it can meditate problems away .

<response> <organization>Natural Law Party</organization> says it can meditate problems away . </response>


WASHINGTON 1996-08-22

<response> <location>WASHINGTON</location> 1996-08-22 </response>


From the people who brought you hundreds of " yogic fliers " who claimed to defy nature by levitating comes The Natural Law Party , a minor political party that nominated a presidential candidate on Thursday .

<response> From the people who brought you hundreds of " yogic fliers " who claimed to defy nature by levitating comes <organization>The Natural Law Party</organization> , a minor political party that nominated a presidential candidate on Thursday . </response>


At a hotel convention here , the party associated with the Transcendental Meditation ( TM ) movement named physicist John Hagelin as its presidential nominee for the Nov. 5 election .

<response> At a hotel convention here , the party associated with the <misc>Transcendental Meditation</misc> ( <misc>TM</misc> ) movement named physicist <person>John Hagelin</person> as its presidential nominee for the Nov. 5 election . </response>


<response> The party is running on a platform claiming it can ward off problems before they occur through techniques such as mass meditation that would reduce stress , crime , terrorism and even wars . </response>


<response> " Social stress can be reduced and problems such as crime and violence will automatically decrease , " said a party paper . </response>


Many party members are practitioners of TM , which involves meditating to a repeated word or phrase , called a mantra .

<response> Many party members are practitioners of <misc>TM</misc> , which involves meditating to a repeated word or phrase , called a mantra . </response>


Some advanced TM followers contend they can actually mediate to such a point that they fly .

<response> Some advanced <misc>TM</misc> followers contend they can actually mediate to such a point that they fly . </response>


<response> But in a demonstration of " yogic flying " several years ago , critics said the people were merely bouncing off the ground from a sitting position . </response>


Huge Windows 95 sales fail to meet expectations .

<response> Huge <misc>Windows 95</misc> sales fail to meet expectations . </response>


Martin Wolk

<response> <person>Martin Wolk</person> </response>


SEATTLE 1996-08-22

<response> <location>SEATTLE</location> 1996-08-22 </response>


A year after its massively publicized introduction , Microsoft Corp. 's Windows 95 computer operating system has fallen short of the most optimistic expectations for the software giant and the industry .

<response> A year after its massively publicized introduction , <organization>Microsoft Corp.</organization> 's <misc>Windows 95</misc> computer operating system has fallen short of the most optimistic expectations for the software giant and the industry . </response>


Even though more than 40 million copies of Windows 95 have been sold , making it the fastest-selling new software ever , it would have been impossible for any product to live up to the unprecedented hype of the Aug. 24 , 1995 launch , when stores around the world opened at midnight to greet long lines of customers .

<response> Even though more than 40 million copies of <misc>Windows 95</misc> have been sold , making it the fastest-selling new software ever , it would have been impossible for any product to live up to the unprecedented hype of the Aug. 24 , 1995 launch , when stores around the world opened at midnight to greet long lines of customers . </response>


The Redmond , Wash.-based company spent tens of millions of dollars promoting the product with stunts that included buying the entire print run of the Times of London and lighting New York 's Empire State building in a Windows color scheme .

<response> The <person>Redmond</person> , <misc>Wash.-based</misc> company spent tens of millions of dollars promoting the product with stunts that included buying the entire print run of the <organization>Times of London</organization> and lighting <location>New York</location> 's <location>Empire State</location> building in a <misc>Windows</misc> color scheme . </response>


But the product , delivered eight months late , has fallen short of its sales potential in part because Microsoft delivered a mixed message to business customers , analysts said .

<response> But the product , delivered eight months late , has fallen short of its sales potential in part because <organization>Microsoft</organization> delivered a mixed message to business customers , analysts said . </response>


" It did n't do as well as it could have , " said Rob Enderle , an analyst with Giga Information Group .

<response> " It did n't do as well as it could have , " said <person>Rob Enderle</person> , an analyst with <organization>Giga Information Group</organization> . </response>


<response> Scores of software and hardware companies that had hoped for a big boost in sales were disappointed when only a brief spike materialized . </response>


" People who were expecting major coat-tails were somewhat disappointed , " said Scott Winkler , an analyst with Gartner Group .

<response> " People who were expecting major coat-tails were somewhat disappointed , " said <person>Scott Winkler</person> , an analyst with <organization>Gartner Group</organization> . </response>


<response> " It 's not as though it has n't had an impact , " he said . " </response>


<response> It just has n't had the huge earth-shattering impact some people were looking for . " </response>


Symantec Corp. , which had been among the most bullish of software companies at the time of the Windows 95 launch , ended up posting disappointing financial results when retail sales of the operating system fell short of its projections .

<response> <organization>Symantec Corp.</organization> , which had been among the most bullish of software companies at the time of the <misc>Windows 95</misc> launch , ended up posting disappointing financial results when retail sales of the operating system fell short of its projections . </response>


Touchstone Software Corp. had to pay $ 1.3 million in cash and stock to settle a shareholders lawsuit brought after the company 's sales failed to meet expectations tied to the Windows 95 launch .

<response> <organization>Touchstone Software Corp.</organization> had to pay $ 1.3 million in cash and stock to settle a shareholders lawsuit brought after the company 's sales failed to meet expectations tied to the <misc>Windows 95</misc> launch . </response>


Many software developers apparently saw their crucial holiday season sales suffer last year because store shelves were jammed with blue-and-white boxes of Windows 95 , resulting in a shortage of space for seasonal products , said Ann Stephens , president of PC Data Inc .

<response> Many software developers apparently saw their crucial holiday season sales suffer last year because store shelves were jammed with blue-and-white boxes of <misc>Windows 95</misc> , resulting in a shortage of space for seasonal products , said <person>Ann Stephens</person> , president of <organization>PC Data Inc</organization> . </response>


To be sure , sales of Windows 95 and the accompanying Office 95 upgrade drove Microsoft sales up 46 percent last year to a record $ 8.67 billion and cemented the company 's status as the industry 's dominant company .

<response> To be sure , sales of <misc>Windows 95</misc> and the accompanying <misc>Office 95</misc> upgrade drove <organization>Microsoft</organization> sales up 46 percent last year to a record $ 8.67 billion and cemented the company 's status as the industry 's dominant company . </response>


Microsoft executives say they are thrilled with the sales figures , and industry analysts estimate that by sometime next year , the installed base of Windows 95 will surpass that of the older version of Windows , now used on about 100 million computers worldwide .

<response> <organization>Microsoft</organization> executives say they are thrilled with the sales figures , and industry analysts estimate that by sometime next year , the installed base of <misc>Windows 95</misc> will surpass that of the older version of <misc>Windows</misc> , now used on about 100 million computers worldwide . </response>


But Enderle said the figure could have been even higher if Microsoft had done a better job of handling the huge demand for technical support from customers who were frustrated trying to install the system .

<response> But <person>Enderle</person> said the figure could have been even higher if <organization>Microsoft</organization> had done a better job of handling the huge demand for technical support from customers who were frustrated trying to install the system . </response>


He and other analysts said corporate America adopted a go-slow approach because Microsoft already was promoting the new version of its high-end Windows NT operating system , expected to be available in stores in the next several weeks .

<response> He and other analysts said corporate <location>America</location> adopted a go-slow approach because <organization>Microsoft</organization> already was promoting the new version of its high-end <misc>Windows NT</misc> operating system , expected to be available in stores in the next several weeks . </response>


" Microsoft sent a lot of signals that NT was going to be the answer , " Winkler said . "

<response> " <organization>Microsoft</organization> sent a lot of signals that <misc>NT</misc> was going to be the answer , " <person>Winkler</person> said . " </response>


Many people began to believe that Windows 95 was being downplayed . "

<response> Many people began to believe that <misc>Windows 95</misc> was being downplayed . " </response>


But now that Windows NT 4.0 has been launched , Winkler and others believe only a relatively small proportion of corporate users will elect to pay the added software and hardware costs needed to use it instead of Windows 95 .

<response> But now that <misc>Windows NT 4.0</misc> has been launched , <person>Winkler</person> and others believe only a relatively small proportion of corporate users will elect to pay the added software and hardware costs needed to use it instead of <misc>Windows 95</misc> . </response>


" Windows 95 is going to do great , " he said . "

<response> " <misc>Windows 95</misc> is going to do great , " he said . " </response>


<response> The mistake people made was in thinking it was going to be a fast , sweeping change rather than a slow , building change . " </response>


U.S. says still committed to Cuba migration pacts .

<response> <location>U.S.</location> says still committed to <location>Cuba</location> migration pacts . </response>


WASHINGTON 1996-08-22

<response> <location>WASHINGTON</location> 1996-08-22 </response>


The United States said on Thursday it remained committed to migration accords with Cuba and would continue to repatriate intercepted Cuban migrants who attempted to enter U.S. territory illegally .

<response> The <location>United States</location> said on Thursday it remained committed to migration accords with <location>Cuba</location> and would continue to repatriate intercepted <misc>Cuban</misc> migrants who attempted to enter <location>U.S.</location> territory illegally . </response>


A State Department statement appeared in part a response to Cuban complaints that Washington was jeopardising the accords by failing to return some of the Cubans involved in recent illegal migration incidents .

<response> A <organization>State Department</organization> statement appeared in part a response to <misc>Cuban</misc> complaints that <location>Washington</location> was jeopardising the accords by failing to return some of the <misc>Cubans</misc> involved in recent illegal migration incidents . </response>


" The United States reiterates its full commitment to the implementation " of the accords signed by the two countries in 1994 and 1995 , said the statement by spokesman Glyn Davies .

<response> " The <location>United States</location> reiterates its full commitment to the implementation " of the accords signed by the two countries in 1994 and 1995 , said the statement by spokesman <person>Glyn Davies</person> . </response>


" The United States will continue to return Cuban migrants intercepted at sea who seek to enter the United States or the Guantanamo Naval Base illegally , " it said .

<response> " The <location>United States</location> will continue to return <misc>Cuban</misc> migrants intercepted at sea who seek to enter the <location>United States</location> or the <location>Guantanamo Naval Base</location> illegally , " it said . </response>


Washington would also take " prompt and effective law enforcement action " against alien smuggling and hijackings from Cuba , it added .

<response> <location>Washington</location> would also take " prompt and effective law enforcement action " against alien smuggling and hijackings from <location>Cuba</location> , it added . </response>


Davies told reporters the statement would be distributed in the Cuban exile community in Miami " to remind everyone of the importance of abiding by the accords and avoiding dangerous attempts to cross the straits " from Cuba to Florida .

<response> <person>Davies</person> told reporters the statement would be distributed in the <misc>Cuban</misc> exile community in <location>Miami</location> " to remind everyone of the importance of abiding by the accords and avoiding dangerous attempts to cross the straits " from <location>Cuba</location> to <location>Florida</location> . </response>


Havana 's complaints centred on an incident in which a boatload of emigrants capsized in the Florida Straits last week and two recent aircraft hijackings from Cuba .

<response> <location>Havana</location> 's complaints centred on an incident in which a boatload of emigrants capsized in the <location>Florida Straits</location> last week and two recent aircraft hijackings from <location>Cuba</location> . </response>


Sixteen of those picked up from the boat were returned to Cuba but eight were taken to the United States and three to Guantanamo Bay , a U.S. base on Cuba , until they emigrated to another nation .

<response> Sixteen of those picked up from the boat were returned to <location>Cuba</location> but eight were taken to the <location>United States</location> and three to <location>Guantanamo Bay</location> , a <location>U.S.</location> base on <location>Cuba</location> , until they emigrated to another nation . </response>


<response> The most recent hijacking , last Friday , involved three hijackers and the pilot of a small aircraft . </response>


Davies said on Tuesday the pilot could soon return to Cuba but U.S. authorities planned to try the hijackers .

<response> <person>Davies</person> said on Tuesday the pilot could soon return to <location>Cuba</location> but <location>U.S.</location> authorities planned to try the hijackers . </response>


In an incident on July 7 , a Cuban interior ministry official hijacked a commercial plane and sought aylum at Guantanamo Bay .

<response> In an incident on July 7 , a <misc>Cuban</misc> <organization>interior ministry</organization> official hijacked a commercial plane and sought aylum at <location>Guantanamo Bay</location> . </response>


Davies said he knew of no plans to return the man to Cuba .

<response> <person>Davies</person> said he knew of no plans to return the man to <location>Cuba</location> . </response>


Wis .

<response> <location>Wis</location> . </response>


<response> says is first state to apply for new welfare . </response>


CHICAGO 1996-08-22

<response> <location>CHICAGO</location> 1996-08-22 </response>


In keeping with its pioneering image in the area of welfare , Wisconsin was the first state to submit an administrative plan under the nation 's new welfare law , Gov .

<response> In keeping with its pioneering image in the area of welfare , <location>Wisconsin</location> was the first state to submit an administrative plan under the nation 's new welfare law , Gov . </response>


Tommy Thompson said Thursday .

<response> <person>Tommy Thompson</person> said Thursday . </response>


According to a new release from the governor , Wisconsin submitted a plan to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services for administration of the new block grant system for welfare just minutes after President Bill Clinton signed the measure into law Thursday .

<response> According to a new release from the governor , <location>Wisconsin</location> submitted a plan to the <organization>U.S. Department of Health and Human Services</organization> for administration of the new block grant system for welfare just minutes after President <person>Bill Clinton</person> signed the measure into law Thursday . </response>


" As the nation 's leader in welfare reform , Wisconsin is far ahead of the curve and ready to go under this new system , " Thompson said .

<response> " As the nation 's leader in welfare reform , <location>Wisconsin</location> is far ahead of the curve and ready to go under this new system , " <person>Thompson</person> said . </response>


Still , the governor said the new law does not go as far as the state 's own welfare reform program , dubbed W-2 .

<response> Still , the governor said the new law does not go as far as the state 's own welfare reform program , dubbed <misc>W-2</misc> . </response>


He said that despite the new law , Wisconsin will still require federal waivers allowing the working poor to acquire health care coverage from the state , a 60-day residency requirement for participation in the welfare program , and child support collections to go directly to custodial parents .

<response> He said that despite the new law , <location>Wisconsin</location> will still require federal waivers allowing the working poor to acquire health care coverage from the state , a 60-day residency requirement for participation in the welfare program , and child support collections to go directly to custodial parents . </response>


<response> The nation 's new welfare reform law limits eligibility , gives states more power and ends direct federal aid for poor children . </response>


-- Karen Pierog , 312-408-8647

<response> -- <person>Karen Pierog</person> , 312-408-8647 </response>


Snoozing Vietnamese man takes slow train to Alaska .

<response> Snoozing <misc>Vietnamese</misc> man takes slow train to <location>Alaska</location> . </response>


ANCHORAGE , Alaska 1996-08-22

<response> <location>ANCHORAGE</location> , <location>Alaska</location> 1996-08-22 </response>


A Vietnamese man who tried to take a snooze in a railway boxcar in Canada found himself locked in and bound for Alaska with no food or water .

<response> A <misc>Vietnamese</misc> man who tried to take a snooze in a railway boxcar in <location>Canada</location> found himself locked in and bound for <location>Alaska</location> with no food or water . </response>


Officials in the port of Whittier said on Thursday that they found Tuan Quac Phan , 29 , dehydrated , famished and terrified after sailing to Alaska from Canada in the boxcar loaded on a barge , a trip that takes about five days .

<response> Officials in the port of <location>Whittier</location> said on Thursday that they found <person>Tuan Quac Phan</person> , 29 , dehydrated , famished and terrified after sailing to <location>Alaska</location> from <location>Canada</location> in the boxcar loaded on a barge , a trip that takes about five days . </response>


Sgt .


Dan Jewell of the Whittier , Alaska police department described Phan as " extremely cooperative " . "

<response> <person>Dan Jewell</person> of the <location>Whittier</location> , <location>Alaska</location> police department described <person>Phan</person> as " extremely cooperative " . " </response>


<response> Seeing me in my uniform , he kept saying , Jail better . </response>


Jail better . '


Phan 's accidental journey started last week in Prince Rupert , British Columbia , where he was searching for a fishing job , Jewell said .

<response> <person>Phan</person> 's accidental journey started last week in <location>Prince Rupert</location> , <location>British Columbia</location> , where he was searching for a fishing job , <person>Jewell</person> said . </response>


" He had climbed up in this boxcar to get out of the weather and to get some sleep , " Jewell said . "

<response> " He had climbed up in this boxcar to get out of the weather and to get some sleep , " <person>Jewell</person> said . " </response>


<response> The next thing you know , the boxcar is coupled up and loaded up to a barge and headed north . " </response>


Police found Phan late on Monday when the boxcar , which was transporting lumber , was opened at Whittier , a port in western Prince William Sound .

<response> Police found <person>Phan</person> late on Monday when the boxcar , which was transporting lumber , was opened at <location>Whittier</location> , a port in western <location>Prince William Sound</location> . </response>


Officials fed Phan some soup , gave him medical care , kept him overnight and then fed him a large breakfast .

<response> Officials fed <person>Phan</person> some soup , gave him medical care , kept him overnight and then fed him a large breakfast . </response>


State , federal agents probe Arkansas church fires .

<response> State , federal agents probe <location>Arkansas</location> church fires . </response>


Steve Barnes

<response> <person>Steve Barnes</person> </response>


LITTLE ROCK , Ark .

<response> <location>LITTLE ROCK</location> , <location>Ark</location> . </response>


State and federal agents on Thursday sifted through the rubble of two predominantly black Arkansas churches that burned within minutes of one another late Tuesday and early Wednesday .

<response> State and federal agents on Thursday sifted through the rubble of two predominantly black <location>Arkansas</location> churches that burned within minutes of one another late Tuesday and early Wednesday . </response>


Both churches were in the Mississippi delta region of Arkansas , about 90 miles ( 145 kms ) southeast of Little Rock , and were located within three miles of one another .

<response> Both churches were in the <location>Mississippi</location> delta region of <location>Arkansas</location> , about 90 miles ( 145 kms ) southeast of <location>Little Rock</location> , and were located within three miles of one another . </response>


" We 're investigating with the idea that both fires may be arson , but that has n't been conclusively established , " said Wayne Jordan , a spokesman for the Arkansas State Police .

<response> " We 're investigating with the idea that both fires may be arson , but that has n't been conclusively established , " said <person>Wayne Jordan</person> , a spokesman for the <organization>Arkansas State Police</organization> . </response>


Agents of the F.B.I. and the Bureau of Alcohol , Tobacco and Firearms were also at the scene , Jordan said .

<response> Agents of the <organization>F.B.I.</organization> and the <organization>Bureau of Alcohol , Tobacco and Firearms</organization> were also at the scene , <person>Jordan</person> said . </response>


Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church and St. Matthews Missionary Baptist Church were both frame structures , each near Turner , Arkansas , a small community surrounded by cotton and soybean fields .

<response> <location>Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church</location> and <location>St. Matthews Missionary Baptist Church</location> were both frame structures , each near <location>Turner</location> , <location>Arkansas</location> , a small community surrounded by cotton and soybean fields . </response>


" This is rural Arkansas .

<response> " This is rural <location>Arkansas</location> . </response>


I 'm surprised anyone could even find us out here , " said Fannie Johnson , a member of St. Matthew 's , who said she believed arson was to blame .

<response> I 'm surprised anyone could even find us out here , " said <person>Fannie Johnson</person> , a member of <location>St. Matthew 's</location> , who said she believed arson was to blame . </response>


<response> Others connected with the two churches said they shared that suspicion , although all said they knew of no motive and no racial tension in the area . </response>


" It 's sad someone would have that kind of spite in their heart , " said Rev. Jerome Turner , pastor of Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church .

<response> " It 's sad someone would have that kind of spite in their heart , " said Rev. <person>Jerome Turner</person> , pastor of <location>Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church</location> . </response>


Arkansas has been spared the loss of predominantly black churches to arson , a wave that has claimed an estimated 30 houses of worship across the south in the past several months .

<response> <location>Arkansas</location> has been spared the loss of predominantly black churches to arson , a wave that has claimed an estimated 30 houses of worship across the south in the past several months . </response>


A black church near Camden , Arkansas , about 100 miles ( 161 kms ) south of Little Rock , burned in July , but federal agents have not determined the cause .

<response> A black church near <location>Camden</location> , <location>Arkansas</location> , about 100 miles ( 161 kms ) south of <location>Little Rock</location> , burned in July , but federal agents have not determined the cause . </response>


RESEARCH ALERT - Royal Oak initiated .

<response> RESEARCH ALERT - <organization>Royal Oak</organization> initiated . </response>


-- EVEREN Securities Inc said Friday it initiated coverage of Royal Oak Mines Inc with an outperform rating .

<response> -- <organization>EVEREN Securities Inc</organization> said Friday it initiated coverage of <organization>Royal Oak Mines Inc</organization> with an outperform rating . </response>


<response> -- It set earnings estimates of $ 0.08 a share for fiscal 1996 , $ 0.13 for 1997 , $ 0.40 for 1998 and $ 0.43 for 1999 . </response>


-- " Based on our simulated production , income and cash flow models , common shares of Royal Oak are at a significant discount to the industry averages , " EVEREN said .

<response> -- " Based on our simulated production , income and cash flow models , common shares of <organization>Royal Oak</organization> are at a significant discount to the industry averages , " <organization>EVEREN</organization> said . </response>


<response> -- The short-term price objective is $ 5 a share and the long-term objective is $ 9 . </response>


-- Royal Oak shares were down 1/16 at 3-11/16 .

<response> -- <organization>Royal Oak</organization> shares were down 1/16 at 3-11/16 . </response>


Reuters Chicago Newsdesk - 312-408-8787

<response> <organization>Reuters Chicago Newsdesk</organization> - 312-408-8787 </response>


SunGard to buy CheckFree unit .

<response> <organization>SunGard</organization> to buy <organization>CheckFree</organization> unit . </response>


SAN MATEO , Calif. 1996-08-23

<response> <location>SAN MATEO</location> , <location>Calif.</location> 1996-08-23 </response>


SunGard Shareholder Systems Inc , a subsidiary of SunGard Data Systems Inc , said it had entered into a definitive agreement to buy the Securities Products Business unit of CheckFree Corp .

<response> <organization>SunGard Shareholder Systems Inc</organization> , a subsidiary of <organization>SunGard Data Systems Inc</organization> , said it had entered into a definitive agreement to buy the <organization>Securities Products Business</organization> unit of <organization>CheckFree Corp</organization> . </response>


<response> The company said in a statement on Friday the deal was expected to be finalized in September . </response>


Terms were not disclosed .

<response> Terms were not disclosed . </response>


The purchase is not expected to have a material effect o SunGard 's financial condition or results of operations .

<response> The purchase is not expected to have a material effect o <organization>SunGard</organization> 's financial condition or results of operations . </response>


-- New York newsroom , ( 212 ) 859-1610

<response> -- <location>New York</location> newsroom , ( 212 ) 859-1610 </response>


Alpha Techs closes Lockhart purchase .

<response> <organization>Alpha Techs</organization> closes <organization>Lockhart</organization> purchase . </response>


NEW YORK 1996-08-23

<response> <location>NEW YORK</location> 1996-08-23 </response>


Alpha Technologies Group Inc said it had closed on its agreement to acquire Lockhart Industries Inc .

<response> <organization>Alpha Technologies Group Inc</organization> said it had closed on its agreement to acquire <organization>Lockhart Industries Inc</organization> . </response>


The company said in a statement late on Thursday that it issued 280,556 shares of common stock for the stock of Lockhart .

<response> The company said in a statement late on Thursday that it issued 280,556 shares of common stock for the stock of <organization>Lockhart</organization> . </response>


<response> These shares are subject to post-closing adjustments . </response>


Lockhart , based in Paramount , Calif. , is a designer and manufacturer of sophisticated thermal management products .

<response> <organization>Lockhart</organization> , based in <location>Paramount</location> , <location>Calif.</location> , is a designer and manufacturer of sophisticated thermal management products . </response>


-- New York newsroom , ( 212 ) 859-1610


Analysts hold Dutch PTT estimates .

<response> Analysts hold <organization>Dutch PTT</organization> estimates . </response>


AMSTERDAM 1996-08-23

<response> <location>AMSTERDAM</location> 1996-08-23 </response>


Dutch post and telecoms group Koninklijke PTT Nederland NV 's ( Dutch PTT ) first half results came marginally below most analysts ' forecasts , giving scant grounds to adjust full year estimates , analysts said on Friday .

<response> <misc>Dutch</misc> post and telecoms group <organization>Koninklijke PTT Nederland NV</organization> 's ( <organization>Dutch PTT</organization> ) first half results came marginally below most analysts ' forecasts , giving scant grounds to adjust full year estimates , analysts said on Friday . </response>


PTT earlier announced an 8.5 percent rise in net profit for the first six months of 1996 to 1.209 billion guilders , a hair 's breadth below the 1.210-1.236 billion forecast range .

<response> <organization>PTT</organization> earlier announced an 8.5 percent rise in net profit for the first six months of 1996 to 1.209 billion guilders , a hair 's breadth below the 1.210-1.236 billion forecast range . </response>


" They were pretty much in line with our estimate of 1.210 billion , " said Peter Roe , at Paribas in London . "

<response> " They were pretty much in line with our estimate of 1.210 billion , " said <person>Peter Roe</person> , at <organization>Paribas</organization> in <location>London</location> . " </response>


<response> As we expected volume growth was quite good ... </response>


<response> there 's really no reason to change our forecast and our largely positive view on the stock . " </response>


" Coming just a million guilders under the forecast range is n't overwhelmingly surprising , " said ING analyst Steven Vrolijk , who is continuing to look for a nine to 10 percent rise in 1996 earnings .

<response> " Coming just a million guilders under the forecast range is n't overwhelmingly surprising , " said <organization>ING</organization> analyst <person>Steven Vrolijk</person> , who is continuing to look for a nine to 10 percent rise in 1996 earnings . </response>


" They 've got a very sound domestic business which is doing very well , we remain positive on the stock , " said Roe . "

<response> " They 've got a very sound domestic business which is doing very well , we remain positive on the stock , " said <person>Roe</person> . " </response>


We think it 's a solid performer in the Dutch market . "

<response> We think it 's a solid performer in the <misc>Dutch</misc> market . " </response>


Roe said he was sticking by his forecast of a 2.45 billion guilder net for 1996 .

<response> <person>Roe</person> said he was sticking by his forecast of a 2.45 billion guilder net for 1996 . </response>


Dutch PTT earlier on Friday repeated a forecast it would improve on 1995 's 2.26 billion guilder net profit for the whole year of 1996 .

<response> <organization>Dutch PTT</organization> earlier on Friday repeated a forecast it would improve on 1995 's 2.26 billion guilder net profit for the whole year of 1996 . </response>


By 1403 GMT the shares were down 1.70 guilders to 61.00 guilders , falling in a weaker Amsterdam bourse .

<response> By 1403 <misc>GMT</misc> the shares were down 1.70 guilders to 61.00 guilders , falling in a weaker <location>Amsterdam</location> bourse . </response>


-- Keiron Henderson , Amsterdam Newsroom +31 20 504 5000

<response> -- <person>Keiron Henderson</person> , <organization>Amsterdam Newsroom</organization> +31 20 504 5000 </response>


Boskalis upgrades 1996 outlook .

<response> <organization>Boskalis</organization> upgrades 1996 outlook . </response>


[ CORRECTED 13:12 GMT ]

<response> [ CORRECTED 13:12 <misc>GMT</misc> ] </response>


PAPENDRECHT , Netherlands 1996-08-23

<response> <location>PAPENDRECHT</location> , <location>Netherlands</location> 1996-08-23 </response>


Dredging group Koninklijke Boskalis Westminster NV said on Friday it expected higher turnover and profits for the second half of 1996 ( corrects from the full year 1996 ) .

<response> Dredging group <organization>Koninklijke Boskalis Westminster NV</organization> said on Friday it expected higher turnover and profits for the second half of 1996 ( corrects from the full year 1996 ) . </response>


<response> " An improvement is expected in capacity utilisation , turnover and profits , " the company said in a statement . </response>


<response> The world 's largest dredger said in March that it was uncertain whether it could hold 1996 full-year profit steady at the previous year 's 70.9 million guilders , but added long-term prospects were good . </response>


Boskalis reported 1996 first-half net profit fell to 27.5 million guilders from a year-earlier 41.4 million .

<response> <organization>Boskalis</organization> reported 1996 first-half net profit fell to 27.5 million guilders from a year-earlier 41.4 million . </response>


Greek president dissolves parliament for snap vote .

<response> <misc>Greek</misc> president dissolves parliament for snap vote . </response>


ATHENS 1996-08-23

<response> <location>ATHENS</location> 1996-08-23 </response>


Greek President Costis Stephnopoulos signed a decree on Thursday ordering the dissolution of the 300-seat parliament ahead of snap elections on September 22 .

<response> <misc>Greek</misc> President <person>Costis Stephnopoulos</person> signed a decree on Thursday ordering the dissolution of the 300-seat parliament ahead of snap elections on September 22 . </response>


" The President of the Republic Costis Stephanopoulos signed the decree for the dissolution of parliament , " a presidency statement said .

<response> " The President of the <misc>Republic</misc> <person>Costis Stephanopoulos</person> signed the decree for the dissolution of parliament , " a presidency statement said . </response>


Socialist Prime Minister Costas Simitis announced the snap poll on Thursday citing problems with the economy , the country 's convergence with the European Union and tense relations with neighbouring Turkey .

<response> Socialist Prime Minister <person>Costas Simitis</person> announced the snap poll on Thursday citing problems with the economy , the country 's convergence with the <organization>European Union</organization> and tense relations with neighbouring <location>Turkey</location> . </response>


<response> Elections were originally scheduled to be held in October next year . </response>


Libyan man murdered in Malta .

<response> <misc>Libyan</misc> man murdered in <location>Malta</location> . </response>


VALLETTA 1996-08-23

<response> <location>VALLETTA</location> 1996-08-23 </response>


A Libyan man has been found stabbed to death in Malta , police said on Friday .

<response> A <misc>Libyan</misc> man has been found stabbed to death in <location>Malta</location> , police said on Friday . </response>


They said the body of Amer Hishem Ali Mohammed , 23 , was found in a pool of blood in Sliema , seven km ( four miles ) from Valletta , on Wednesday morning .

<response> They said the body of <person>Amer Hishem Ali Mohammed</person> , 23 , was found in a pool of blood in <location>Sliema</location> , seven km ( four miles ) from <location>Valletta</location> , on Wednesday morning . </response>


<response> He appeared to have been killed on Tuesday night , suffering at least eight stab wounds . </response>


Police Commissioner George Grech said police were investigating the possibility that Mohammed had links to an Islamic militant group as reported by the local press .

<response> Police Commissioner <person>George Grech</person> said police were investigating the possibility that <person>Mohammed</person> had links to an <misc>Islamic</misc> militant group as reported by the local press . </response>


<response> " What we know is that he was a fervant religious man , we cannot exclude anything in investigations " he said . </response>


Deutsche Bahn H1 pre-tax profit up 17.5 pct .

<response> <organization>Deutsche Bahn</organization> H1 pre-tax profit up 17.5 pct . </response>


FRANKFURT 1996-08-23

<response> <location>FRANKFURT</location> 1996-08-23 </response>


Six months to June 30

<response> Six months to June 30 </response>


( in millions of marks unless stated )

<response> ( in millions of marks unless stated ) </response>


Group pre-tax profit 188 vs 160

<response> Group pre-tax profit 188 vs 160 </response>


Group sales 14,600 up 3.3 pct

<response> Group sales 14,600 up 3.3 pct </response>


NOTE - Full name of the state-owned German railway company is Deutsche Bahn AG .

<response> NOTE - Full name of the state-owned <misc>German</misc> railway company is <organization>Deutsche Bahn AG</organization> . </response>


<response> The company is earmarked for eventual privatisatio </response>


also covers snap FAT8222

<response> also covers snap FAT8222 </response>


Revenue from long-distance passenger

<response> Revenue from long-distance passenger </response>


traffic 2,500 up 6.4 pct

<response> traffic 2,500 up 6.4 pct </response>


<response> Revenue from commuter traffic 5,400 up 4.6 pct </response>


<response> Revenue from freight traffic 3,200 down 5.1 pct </response>


<response> Group workforce on June 30 300,962 down 3.7 oct </response>


<response> NOTE - Sales , profit compare with first half of 1995 , workforce compares with Dec 31 . </response>


-- Frankfurt Newsroom , +49 69 756525

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


<response> Sea lion paparazzi to keep tabs on whales . </response>


LONDON 1996-08-22

<response> <location>LONDON</location> 1996-08-22 </response>


U.S. marine biologists have trained a pair of sea lions to tag and photograph elusive whales as they cruise through the Pacific depths , New Scientist magazine reported on Thursday .

<response> <location>U.S.</location> marine biologists have trained a pair of sea lions to tag and photograph elusive whales as they cruise through the <location>Pacific</location> depths , <organization>New Scientist</organization> magazine reported on Thursday . </response>


James Harvey and Jennifer Hurley of the Moss Landing Marine Laboratories in California say their sea lions , natural companions of many species of whale , can go where no man or woman has ever gone before .

<response> <person>James Harvey</person> and <person>Jennifer Hurley</person> of the <organization>Moss Landing Marine Laboratories</organization> in <location>California</location> say their sea lions , natural companions of many species of whale , can go where no man or woman has ever gone before . </response>


" Any diver knows that when a whale gets going you ca n't keep up , " Harvey told the magazine . "

<response> " Any diver knows that when a whale gets going you ca n't keep up , " <person>Harvey</person> told the magazine . " </response>


<response> That is why we know only about five percent of what whales do . " </response>


The sea lions -- 17-year-old Beaver and nine-year-old Sake -- have undergone six years of training for their mission .

<response> The sea lions -- 17-year-old <person>Beaver</person> and nine-year-old <person>Sake</person> -- have undergone six years of training for their mission . </response>


Beaver once worked for the U.S. Navy and Sake is an amusement park veteran .

<response> <person>Beaver</person> once worked for the <organization>U.S. Navy</organization> and <person>Sake</person> is an amusement park veteran . </response>


Harvey said they could accurately tag whales with a radio transmitter , and could also swim all the way around one of the giant mammals , filming it with a video camera .

<response> <person>Harvey</person> said they could accurately tag whales with a radio transmitter , and could also swim all the way around one of the giant mammals , filming it with a video camera . </response>


Their first assignment , later this year , will be documenting humpback whale migration off Monterey , California .

<response> Their first assignment , later this year , will be documenting humpback whale migration off <location>Monterey</location> , <location>California</location> . </response>


<response> The article did not spell out exactly how the sea lions manage to tag the whales but said in training they were taught to stick a radio transmitter on to a plastic model of a whale using suction cups . </response>


RTRS - Australia Senate jeopardises rate cut - Howard .

<response> <organization>RTRS</organization> - <organization>Australia Senate</organization> jeopardises rate cut - <person>Howard</person> . </response>


CANBERRA 1996-08-23

<response> <location>CANBERRA</location> 1996-08-23 </response>


Australian Prime Minister John Howard said the possibility of lower interest rates was being jeopardised by Parliament 's upper house where opposition parties planned to scrutinise the 1996/97 budget .

<response> <misc>Australian</misc> Prime Minister <person>John Howard</person> said the possibility of lower interest rates was being jeopardised by Parliament 's upper house where opposition parties planned to scrutinise the 1996/97 budget . </response>


" Every time the Senate hacks away at the budget , they hack away at the lower interest rate environment , " Howard told reporters on Thursday night after attending a Liberal Party function .

<response> " Every time the <organization>Senate</organization> hacks away at the budget , they hack away at the lower interest rate environment , " <person>Howard</person> told reporters on Thursday night after attending a <organization>Liberal Party</organization> function . </response>


Senior ministers have repeatedly warned since the fiscally-tight budget was handed down on Tuesday night that the chance of lower official rates could be hampered in the Senate .

<response> Senior ministers have repeatedly warned since the fiscally-tight budget was handed down on Tuesday night that the chance of lower official rates could be hampered in the <organization>Senate</organization> . </response>


The budget contained sharp spending cuts in areas such as the labour market to reduce the deficit to about A$ 5.6 billion .

<response> The budget contained sharp spending cuts in areas such as the labour market to reduce the deficit to about <misc>A$</misc> 5.6 billion . </response>


The conservative government 's plan for reform of the industrial relations environment and to partially sell Telstra has also been opposed by parties in the Senate such as the Greens and Australian Democrats as well as the official opposition , the Labor Party .

<response> The conservative government 's plan for reform of the industrial relations environment and to partially sell <organization>Telstra</organization> has also been opposed by parties in the <organization>Senate</organization> such as the <organization>Greens</organization> and <organization>Australian Democrats</organization> as well as the official opposition , the <organization>Labor Party</organization> . </response>


<response> Official cash rates were last cut on July 31 to 7.0 percent . </response>


-- Sydney Newsroom 61-2 373-1800

<response> -- <organization>Sydney Newsroom</organization> 61-2 373-1800 </response>


RTRS - Toyota Australia workers to return to work .

<response> <organization>RTRS</organization> - <organization>Toyota Australia</organization> workers to return to work . </response>


MELBOURNE 1996-08-23

<response> <location>MELBOURNE</location> 1996-08-23 </response>


Over 2,000 striking workers voted on Friday to return to work on Monday at Toyota Australia 's Melbourne assembly line , ending a two-week stoppage .

<response> Over 2,000 striking workers voted on Friday to return to work on Monday at <organization>Toyota Australia</organization> 's <location>Melbourne</location> assembly line , ending a two-week stoppage . </response>


RTRS - Niugini shares surge on bid talk .

<response> <organization>RTRS</organization> - <organization>Niugini</organization> shares surge on bid talk . </response>


SYDNEY 1996-08-23

<response> <location>SYDNEY</location> 1996-08-23 </response>


Shares in gold miner Niugini Mining Ltd surged 38 cents to A$ 3.75 early on Friday following confirmation on Thursday from Battle Mountain Gold that it was considering acquiring the 49.6 percent of Niugini it did not already own .

<response> Shares in gold miner <organization>Niugini Mining Ltd</organization> surged 38 cents to <misc>A$</misc> 3.75 early on Friday following confirmation on Thursday from <organization>Battle Mountain Gold</organization> that it was considering acquiring the 49.6 percent of <organization>Niugini</organization> it did not already own . </response>


Niugini Mining Ltd said on Thursday that Battle Mountain had initiated talks about acquiring the shares in Niugini it does not already own . "

<response> <organization>Niugini Mining Ltd</organization> said on Thursday that <organization>Battle Mountain</organization> had initiated talks about acquiring the shares in <organization>Niugini</organization> it does not already own . " </response>


Battle Mountain are set to take out the minorities there soon , " said a Sydney broker .

<response> <organization>Battle Mountain</organization> are set to take out the minorities there soon , " said a <location>Sydney</location> broker . </response>


Niugini holds copper and gold mining interests in Australia , Chile and Papua New Guinea , where it has a 17.2 percent stake in the Lihir gold project .

<response> <organization>Niugini</organization> holds copper and gold mining interests in <location>Australia</location> , <location>Chile</location> and <location>Papua New Guinea</location> , where it has a 17.2 percent stake in the <organization>Lihir</organization> gold project . </response>


By 11.25 a.m. ( 0025 GMT ) , Niugini Mining shares were at A$ 3.65 , up 28 cents on turnover of 108,288 shares .

<response> By 11.25 a.m. ( 0025 <misc>GMT</misc> ) , <organization>Niugini Mining</organization> shares were at <misc>A$</misc> 3.65 , up 28 cents on turnover of 108,288 shares . </response>


-- Sydney Newsroom 61-2 9373 1800

<response> -- <organization>Sydney Newsroom</organization> 61-2 9373 1800 </response>


South Korean students throw " irreplaceable " rocks .

<response> <misc>South Korean</misc> students throw " irreplaceable " rocks . </response>


SEOUL 1996-08-23

<response> <location>SEOUL</location> 1996-08-23 </response>


Students at South Korea 's Yonsei University threw more than just ordinary rocks at riot police -- some were samples that the geology department had taken 30 years to collect , newspapers reported on Friday .

<response> Students at <location>South Korea</location> 's <organization>Yonsei University</organization> threw more than just ordinary rocks at riot police -- some were samples that the geology department had taken 30 years to collect , newspapers reported on Friday . </response>


<response> Geology prefessors were quoted as saying that their collection of 10,000 rocks , gathered from across the nation and abroad , were irreplaceable . </response>


<response> " These are not like missing window panes or broken desks . </response>


<response> They are lost forever , " said one professor . </response>


The students staged a violent nine-day demonstration at the university to demand unification with North Korea .

<response> The students staged a violent nine-day demonstration at the university to demand unification with <location>North Korea</location> . </response>


<response> Police ended the protest on Tuesday after storming the campus . </response>


S. Korean won ends up on dollar position unwinding .

<response> <misc>S. Korean</misc> won ends up on dollar position unwinding . </response>


SEOUL 1996-08-23


<response> The won rose against the dollar on Friday as banks unwound dollar positions on the belief that the won would continue to strengthen , dealers said . </response>


<response> The won closed at 818.10 , after opening at 819.10 . </response>


It ranged from 817.60 to 819.30 .

<response> It ranged from 817.60 to 819.30 . </response>


<response> " The dollar is overbought at the moment , " said a western bank dealer . " </response>


<response> The central bank 's insistent intervention just above the 820 level convinced players that it is serious about supporting the won . </response>


<response> So some foreign banks began unwinding their dollar positions . " </response>


Orii - 96/97 group forecast .

<response> <organization>Orii</organization> - 96/97 group forecast . </response>


TOKYO 1996-08-23

<response> <location>TOKYO</location> 1996-08-23 </response>


Year to May 31 , 1997

<response> Year to May 31 , 1997 </response>


( in billions of yen unless specified )

<response> ( in billions of yen unless specified ) </response>


LATEST ACTUAL


( Group ) FORECAST YEAR-AGO

<response> ( Group ) FORECAST YEAR-AGO </response>


Sales 8.70 8.67


Current prft 7 mln loss 371 mln

<response> Current prft 7 mln loss 371 mln </response>


Net nil loss 447 mln

<response> Net nil loss 447 mln </response>


EPS nil yen loss 48.61 yen

<response> EPS nil yen loss 48.61 yen </response>


NOTE - Orii Corp makes automation equipment .

<response> NOTE - <organization>Orii Corp</organization> makes automation equipment . </response>


Orii - 95/96 group results .

<response> <organization>Orii</organization> - 95/96 group results . </response>


TOKYO 1996-08-23


Year to May 31 , 1996

<response> Year to May 31 , 1996 </response>


<response> ( Group ) ( in billions of yen unless specified ) </response>


Sales 8.67 vs 9.33

<response> Sales 8.67 vs 9.33 </response>


<response> Operating loss 286 million vs loss 48 million </response>


<response> Current loss 371 million vs loss 278 million </response>


<response> Net loss 447 million vs loss 350 million </response>


EPS loss 48.61 yen vs loss 38.11 yen

<response> EPS loss 48.61 yen vs loss 38.11 yen </response>


Diluted EPS - vs -

<response> Diluted EPS - vs - </response>


China copper stocks owned by state reserve - trade .

<response> <location>China</location> copper stocks owned by state reserve - trade . </response>


Lynne O'Donnell

<response> <person>Lynne O'Donnell</person> </response>


HONG KONG 1996-08-23

<response> <location>HONG KONG</location> 1996-08-23 </response>


Up to 100,000 tonnes of copper held in Shanghai bonded warehouses , confounding the world market as to its source and ultimate fate , probably belongs to China 's strategic state reserve , industry sources said on Friday .

<response> Up to 100,000 tonnes of copper held in <location>Shanghai</location> bonded warehouses , confounding the world market as to its source and ultimate fate , probably belongs to <location>China</location> 's strategic state reserve , industry sources said on Friday . </response>


Around 40,000 tonnes of the copper have already been moved to warehouses near the northern port of Yingkou , where some of the strategic stockpile was stored , they said .

<response> Around 40,000 tonnes of the copper have already been moved to warehouses near the northern port of <location>Yingkou</location> , where some of the strategic stockpile was stored , they said . </response>


Just who owns the copper is a question that has kept traders and industry analysts guessing since the metal was channelled into Shanghai by the China National Nonferrous Metals Import and Export Corp ( CNIEC ) in June and July .

<response> Just who owns the copper is a question that has kept traders and industry analysts guessing since the metal was channelled into <location>Shanghai</location> by the <organization>China National Nonferrous Metals Import and Export Corp</organization> ( <organization>CNIEC</organization> ) in June and July . </response>


It was unclear whether or not the 40,000 tonnes had cleared customs -- which would provide some concrete indication that the strategic reserve , administered directly by the central government 's State Planning Commission , owned the copper .

<response> It was unclear whether or not the 40,000 tonnes had cleared customs -- which would provide some concrete indication that the strategic reserve , administered directly by the central government 's <organization>State Planning Commission</organization> , owned the copper . </response>


<response> Traders have said the reserve could negotiate concessions on duties -- three percent import tax and 17 percent value-added tax -- that made the copper prohibitively expensive otherwise . </response>


But one source , the head of a Hong Kong trading house , said it made no difference if the copper was customs cleared or not .

<response> But one source , the head of a <location>Hong Kong</location> trading house , said it made no difference if the copper was customs cleared or not . </response>


" If they spend all this money moving the copper to Yingkou , it will be sitting there for years , " he said .

<response> " If they spend all this money moving the copper to <location>Yingkou</location> , it will be sitting there for years , " he said . </response>


" Once it arrives in Yingkou , it is subject to monitoring by the State Planning Commission , which has to give permission for any more movement ; it is out of the hands of traders , " he said .

<response> " Once it arrives in <location>Yingkou</location> , it is subject to monitoring by the <organization>State Planning Commission</organization> , which has to give permission for any more movement ; it is out of the hands of traders , " he said . </response>


Mystery has surrounded the Shanghai stockpile in recent months , with traders unsure not only of who owns it , but of its exact size and what its owner planned to do with it .

<response> Mystery has surrounded the <location>Shanghai</location> stockpile in recent months , with traders unsure not only of who owns it , but of its exact size and what its owner planned to do with it . </response>


Trading sources generally agreed it would be cost-effective to take the copper back into a depleted central reserve as it had already served its purpose in taking advantage of long-term backwardation on the London Metal Exchange ( LME ) .

<response> Trading sources generally agreed it would be cost-effective to take the copper back into a depleted central reserve as it had already served its purpose in taking advantage of long-term backwardation on the <organization>London Metal Exchange</organization> ( <organization>LME</organization> ) . </response>


<response> A backwardation occurs when the spot price of a metal is higher than the forward price . </response>


CNIEC lent around 85,000 tonnes of copper onto the LME between April and June 1995 on behalf of the state reserve , running the state stockpile down to 115,000 tonnes from 200,000 tonnes previously .

<response> <organization>CNIEC</organization> lent around 85,000 tonnes of copper onto the <organization>LME</organization> between April and June 1995 on behalf of the state reserve , running the state stockpile down to 115,000 tonnes from 200,000 tonnes previously . </response>


Traders in Asia said CNIEC could well have lent it to the market at around US$ 2,700 a tonne , and then paid somewhere between $ 2,200 and $ 2,400 a tonne when it started taking the metal back earlier this year .

<response> Traders in <location>Asia</location> said <organization>CNIEC</organization> could well have lent it to the market at around <misc>US$</misc> 2,700 a tonne , and then paid somewhere between $ 2,200 and $ 2,400 a tonne when it started taking the metal back earlier this year . </response>


This would have cleared CNIEC a healthy profit , which could then have been used to finance storage and other costs .

<response> This would have cleared <organization>CNIEC</organization> a healthy profit , which could then have been used to finance storage and other costs . </response>


Word that CNIEC had offered the copper to European trading houses in a series of secret meetings unnerved an already jittery market .

<response> Word that <organization>CNIEC</organization> had offered the copper to <misc>European</misc> trading houses in a series of secret meetings unnerved an already jittery market . </response>


Industry analysts Bloomsbury Minerals Economics ( BME ) said on Wednesday the motivation of the owners of the 85,000 tonnes , " whoever they are , is the most important short-term fundamental " in an already tight world market .

<response> Industry analysts <organization>Bloomsbury Minerals Economics</organization> ( <organization>BME</organization> ) said on Wednesday the motivation of the owners of the 85,000 tonnes , " whoever they are , is the most important short-term fundamental " in an already tight world market . </response>


BME repeated in its latest review rumours of involvement by Sumitomo Corp , with CNIEC said to be helping the Japanese trader unload its copper positions after it revealed in June losses of $ 1.8 billion in a decade of unauthorised deals .

<response> <organization>BME</organization> repeated in its latest review rumours of involvement by <organization>Sumitomo Corp</organization> , with <organization>CNIEC</organization> said to be helping the <misc>Japanese</misc> trader unload its copper positions after it revealed in June losses of $ 1.8 billion in a decade of unauthorised deals . </response>


Sumitomo and CNIEC have made no comments on the talk and Chinese traders said they know nothing of such an arrangement .

<response> <organization>Sumitomo</organization> and <organization>CNIEC</organization> have made no comments on the talk and <misc>Chinese</misc> traders said they know nothing of such an arrangement . </response>


Traders in Shanghai said on Thursday they were unaware of movements out of the Shanghai bonded warehouses .

<response> Traders in <location>Shanghai</location> said on Thursday they were unaware of movements out of the <location>Shanghai</location> bonded warehouses . </response>


<response> They reported more arrivals that were probably spot purchases . </response>


<response> They also expressed concern that the tonnage in bonded warehouses would move onto the domestic market . </response>


But these concerns were irrelevant , a Singapore trader said , despite a forecast that domestic Chinese copper demand could hit one million tonnes this year .

<response> But these concerns were irrelevant , a <location>Singapore</location> trader said , despite a forecast that domestic <misc>Chinese</misc> copper demand could hit one million tonnes this year . </response>


As with many commodities , " there is a desire ( by the Chinese government ) to keep a stockpile of the metal , " he said . "

<response> As with many commodities , " there is a desire ( by the <misc>Chinese</misc> government ) to keep a stockpile of the metal , " he said . " </response>


<response> You do n't keep it to help industry , you keep it in case of emergency . " </response>


-- Hong Kong newsroom ( 852 ) 2843-6470

<response> -- <location>Hong Kong</location> newsroom ( 852 ) 2843-6470 </response>


Companion Marble posts 1st final result .

<response> <organization>Companion Marble</organization> posts 1st final result . </response>


HONG KONG 1996-08-23

<response> <location>HONG KONG</location> 1996-08-23 </response>


Year ended March 31

<response> Year ended March 31 </response>


( in million HK$ unless stated )

<response> ( in million <misc>HK$</misc> unless stated ) </response>


Shr ( H.K. cents ) 14.0

<response> Shr ( <location>H.K.</location> cents ) 14.0 </response>


Dividend ( H.K. cents ) nil

<response> Dividend ( <location>H.K.</location> cents ) nil </response>


Exceptional items nil

<response> Exceptional items nil </response>


Net 56.06


Turnover 531.52


Company name Companion Marble ( Holdings ) Ltd

<response> Company name <organization>Companion Marble</organization> ( <organization>Holdings</organization> ) <organization>Ltd</organization> </response>


Books close N / A

<response> Books close N / A </response>


Dividend payable N / A

<response> Dividend payable N / A </response>


NOTE - Marble and granite products distributor Companion Marble , a spinoff of construction materials concern Companion Building Material ( Holdings ) Ltd , was listed on the Stock Exchange on April 25 , 1996 .

<response> NOTE - Marble and granite products distributor <organization>Companion Marble</organization> , a spinoff of construction materials concern <organization>Companion Building Material</organization> ( <organization>Holdings</organization> ) <organization>Ltd</organization> , was listed on the <organization>Stock Exchange</organization> on April 25 , 1996 . </response>


-- Hong Kong News Room ( 852 ) 2843 6368

<response> -- <organization>Hong Kong News Room</organization> ( 852 ) 2843 6368 </response>


Softbank to procure $ 900 mln via forex by Sept 5 .

<response> <organization>Softbank</organization> to procure $ 900 mln via forex by Sept 5 . </response>


TOKYO 1996-08-23

<response> <location>TOKYO</location> 1996-08-23 </response>


Softbank Corp said on Friday that it would procure $ 900 million through the foreign exchange market by September 5 as part of its acquisition of U.S. firm , Kingston Technology Co .

<response> <organization>Softbank Corp</organization> said on Friday that it would procure $ 900 million through the foreign exchange market by September 5 as part of its acquisition of <location>U.S.</location> firm , <organization>Kingston Technology Co</organization> . </response>


" It is in the contract that we pay ( Kingston ) $ 900 million by September 5 , " he said , adding that Softbank had already started making forward transactions to buy dollars .

<response> " It is in the contract that we pay ( <organization>Kingston</organization> ) $ 900 million by September 5 , " he said , adding that <organization>Softbank</organization> had already started making forward transactions to buy dollars . </response>


On August 15 , computer software retailer Softbank said it would buy 80 percent of Kingston , the world 's largest maker of memory boards , for about $ 1.5 billion in the latest in a series of high-profile acquisitions it has made in the United States .

<response> On August 15 , computer software retailer <organization>Softbank</organization> said it would buy 80 percent of <organization>Kingston</organization> , the world 's largest maker of memory boards , for about $ 1.5 billion in the latest in a series of high-profile acquisitions it has made in the <location>United States</location> . </response>


Shanghai Post and Telecomm net down .

<response> <organization>Shanghai Post and Telecomm</organization> net down . </response>


SHANGHAI 1996-08-23

<response> <location>SHANGHAI</location> 1996-08-23 </response>


Half-year ended June 30 , 1996

<response> Half-year ended June 30 , 1996 </response>


( in millions of yuan unless stated )

<response> ( in millions of yuan unless stated ) </response>


Turnover 115.259 vs 123.157

<response> Turnover 115.259 vs 123.157 </response>


Net profit 20.318 vs 22.828

<response> Net profit 20.318 vs 22.828 </response>


<response> Net asset per share 3.02 yuan ( no comparative figure ) </response>


<response> Earnings per share 0.14 yuan ( no comparative figure ) </response>


Company name : Shanghai Posts and Telecommunications Equipment Co

<response> Company name : <organization>Shanghai Posts and Telecommunications Equipment Co</organization> </response>


Note : the figures were unaudited .

<response> Note : the figures were unaudited . </response>


Promodes set to sell German assets - paper .

<response> <organization>Promodes</organization> set to sell <misc>German</misc> assets - paper . </response>


PARIS 1996-08-23

<response> <location>PARIS</location> 1996-08-23 </response>


German retailer Promodes is in advanced talks about selling its German assets and the retailer 's board might decide as soon as Tuesday to sell the assets to Spar AG , Les Echos newspaper said on Friday .

<response> <misc>German</misc> retailer <organization>Promodes</organization> is in advanced talks about selling its <misc>German</misc> assets and the retailer 's board might decide as soon as Tuesday to sell the assets to <organization>Spar AG</organization> , <organization>Les Echos</organization> newspaper said on Friday . </response>


It said investment bank Rothschild & Cie was an intermediary in the talks and added that unlisted German retailers Metro , Rewe and Lidl were also still in discussions .

<response> It said investment bank <organization>Rothschild & Cie</organization> was an intermediary in the talks and added that unlisted <misc>German</misc> retailers <organization>Metro</organization> , <organization>Rewe</organization> and <organization>Lidl</organization> were also still in discussions . </response>


Promodes has in Germany its Promo hypermarket unit with 36 Continent superstores , which is 1995 generated 4.7 percent of total Promodes sales .

<response> <organization>Promodes</organization> has in <location>Germany</location> its Promo hypermarket unit with 36 Continent superstores , which is 1995 generated 4.7 percent of total <organization>Promodes</organization> sales . </response>


The French group entered the German market in 1990 , buying

<response> The <misc>French</misc> group entered the <misc>German</misc> market in 1990 , buying </response>