ABC Online users are advised to listen to the audio provided on this page to verify the accuracy of the transcripts. For the first time since the fuel crisis began, the oil company Mobil has been meeting with light plane owners. Top of the agenda has been the timetable for a fuel test which will determine which aircraft are contaminated, and which are safe to fly, as well as compensation arrangements for the aviation industry. Meanwhile, grounded charter businesses and flying schools around the country continue to suffer losses as they wait for a solution. NBC Internet Incorporated to develop online and broadband businesses in Australia.
Media commentators say the alliance is a sign of the increased globalisation of the industry.
Time Warner deal is already suffering a hangover, with the biggest merger in corporate history wiping billions from the companies' combined share value. It is a sign of the continuing strength of the economy - that Australian businesses created over 55,000 new jobs in December. But as more people raced to find work, the unemployment rate shot up, climbing steeply back to the 7 per cent mark. The jobs spurt propelled the Australian dollar higher, but makes an interest rate rise more likely, and that such a rise will be greater. Eric Schwartz, President Clinton's right hand man on East Timor policy, who is visiting Canberra, describes the leadership of Interfet Commander Major General Peter Cosgrove as marvellous.