We can then fit into the convention binding agreements on subjects like energy efficiency and forestry , as the science and the political will come into balance. ''

We can fit into the convention binding agreements on energy efficiency and forestry ''


The Secretary of State paved the way for the greening of all Whitehall departments through a White Paper to be published next year and set a target on the recycling of household waste .

The Secretary of State paved the greening of Whitehall departments through a White Paper to be published next year and set a target on the recycling of household waste .


The aim should be to re-cycle half of the 18 million tonnes of domestic rubbish produced in Britain each year within the next 10 years .

The aim should be to re-cycle half of the 18 million tonnes of domestic rubbish produced each year within the next 10 years .


`` It 's for government to regulate on behalf of the community , to set the standards and environmental goals , '' Mr Patten said --- a statement that would have jarred on his predecessor , and , until recently , on the party faithful .

`` It 's for government to regulate on behalf of the community '' Mr Patten said --- a statement that would have jarred on his predecessor .


`` We must harness market forces and the market place to prevent pollution , to change the sort of conduct that degrades the nation 's resources , and to find the most efficient and effective ways of delivering environmental quality. '' Planning was a form of regulation to enhance quality of life .

`` We must harness market forces to prevent pollution , to change the conduct that degrades resources '' Planning was a form of regulation to enhance quality of life .


The environment debate showed conference representatives concerned about unsuitable housing development in the countryside , freeing derelict land in the cities , and litter .

The environment debate showed representatives concerned about unsuitable housing development in the countryside , derelict land in cities , and litter .


One young representative , Colin Mason , a computer systems manager from Streatham , who branded environmental controls as `` socialism by the back door '' , was gently advised by the Secretary of State to read the Tory philospher Edmund Burke .

Colin Mason , who branded environmental controls as `` socialism by the back door '' , was advised by the Secretary of State to read Edmund Burke .


Mr Mason had criticised Mr Patten 's stand against the proposed new town at Foxley Wood , Hampshire .


Now that President F W de Klerk has announced the release of eight of the nine most prominent political prisoners in South Africa , the question is when --- not if --- the ninth , Nelson Mandela , will be freed .

Now President de Klerk has announced the release of eight political prisoners in South Africa , the question is when Nelson Mandela will be freed .


And it is looking increasingly as if the date will be as much Mr Mandela 's own decision as the government 's .

the date will be as much Mandela 's decision as the government 's .


The deference the government is showing him points to the recognition , finally , that Mr Mandela is the symbolic leader of the disenfranchised black majority , and that he is , accordingly , a key player .

The deference points to the recognition that Mandela is the symbolic leader of the black majority .


By extension , so is the Anc , whose influence successive South African governments have attempted , frantically and quite without success , to wish away .

so is the Anc , whose influence South African governments have attempted to wish away .


Mr Mandela , thus , has already begun on his own the negotiating process that Mr de Klerk 's government claims to seek with black leaders .

Mandela has begun on his own the negotiating process de Klerk 's government claims to seek with black leaders .


Maybe without fully recognising it , the government has , in fact , started talking to the Anc --- for if there is one thing Mr Mandela has made clear throughout his long incarceration , it is his unwavering allegiance to the movement , whose foremost leader he remains .

the government has , in fact , started talking to the Anc --- one thing Mandela has made clear is his allegiance to the movement .


Mr Mandela 's hand was discernible in the Anc negotiating proposal put out in August ; in the successful campaign of mass protest before the 6 September white election ; and in a silent scheme by some of the leaders of the black `` homelands '' to flat-foot Mr de Klerk by publicly declaring that the country cannot be partitioned along racial and tribal lines .

Mandela 's hand was discernible in the Anc proposal in August ; in the protest before the white election ; in a scheme by some leaders of black `` homelands '' to flat-foot de Klerk by declaring that the country cannot be partitioned along racial and tribal lines .


The conclusion is irresistible that Mr Mandela is exploiting the government 's growing dependence on him to extend his influence to the many black organisations whose adoptive leader he is. Where there is possibly a meeting of minds between him and the government is in the desire not to release him into a political vacuum .

Mandela is exploiting the government 's dependence on him to extend his influence to black organisations there is a meeting of minds between him and the government in the desire not to release him into a political vacuum .


In the eyes of both , it would make sense not to have him roaming the country generating huge gatherings with a politically futile , and possibly violently anarchic , outcome .

it would make sense not to have him roaming the country generating gatherings with possibly anarchic outcome .


Mr Mandela needs a ready-made negotiating structure in which he can play the decisive role that his authority requires .

Mandela needs a negotiating structure in which he can play the decisive role .


Someone close to Mr Mandela described him yesterday as a chess player five moves ahead of anyone else in the game .

Someone described him as a chess player five moves ahead of anyone else .


For the most remarkable thing to have emerged from Mr de Klerk 's decision is the degree to which Mr Mandela and the exiled African National Congress have become participants in government decision-making .

the most remarkable is the degree to which Mr Mandela and the African National Congress have become participants in government decision-making .


He has acquired an autonomy and influence staggering even by the standards of a country where anomalies are institutionalised .

He has acquired an influence staggering even by the standards of a country where anomalies are institutionalised .


Indications of Mr Mandela 's growing political stature in the eyes of the government have been accumulating for some time .

Indications of Mandela 's growing political stature have been accumulating for some time .


One paragraph in Mr de Klerk 's statement on Tuesday announcing the release of Mr Mandela 's old associate Walter Sisulu provided the final piece of the jigsaw .

de Klerk 's statement announcing the release of Walter Sisulu provided the final piece of the jigsaw .


`` It is necessary to state , '' Mr de Klerk said , `` that Mr Nelson Mandela is fully appraised of these proposed releases .

de Klerk said , `` Mr Nelson Mandela is fully appraised of these proposed releases .


In fact , discussions were held with him and he considered yet again that his release is not now on the agenda. '' Mr de Klerk , so eager to placate Margaret Thatcher and international opinion generally , was saying , between the lines : `` Look , I know you 're asking for Mandela 's release .

he considered that his release is not now on the agenda. '' Mr de Klerk , was saying between the lines : `` you 're asking for Mandela 's release .


But what can I do ?


He does n't want to go out yet. '' Even if that is not the whole truth , --- clearly , the government has a crucial say -Mr de Klerk has gone on record as recognising that Mr Mandela has leverage in government decisions .

He does n't want to go out yet. '' de Klerk has gone on record as recognising Mandela has leverage in government decisions .


A Policeman was yesterday jailed for seven years for raping an 18-year-old woman in his marked patrol car while he was on duty and in uniform .

A Policeman was jailed for seven years for raping an 18-year-old woman while on duty .


Sentencing Constable Peter Anderson , 41 , Mr Justice Jowitt told him he had done `` great damage to the trust in police '' .

Sentencing Constable Peter Anderson , 41 , Mr Justice Jowitt told him he had done `` great damage to police '' .


She said she tried to push him off , but he was too forceful .


Mr Justice Jowitt told Anderson : `` I accept that you were not on the prowl looking for a victim and that it was by chance that this young lady got into your car .

Mr Justice Jowitt told Anderson : `` I accept you were not looking for a victim and it was by chance this young lady got into your car .


I accept that there was no great degree of violence used by you .

there was no great degree of violence used .


`` But you took her against her will in your car to the place where this rape happened , and one of the very disturbing and serious features of this case is the way you abused your position as a police officer in uniform on duty. '' The judge added : `` This girl plainly trusted herself in your company , as she was entitled to .

`` But you took her against her will to where this rape happened , and you abused your position This girl trusted your company .


The public expect that they can treat the police with confidence .

The public expect they can treat police with confidence .


You did great damage to that trust in the police when you behaved in this way. '' Anderson , who had pleaded not guilty and claimed the woman had handed him `` sex on a plate '' , was convicted by a 10-2 majority of raping the woman on 4 April , last year .

You did great damage to that trust '' Anderson , who had pleaded not guilty , was convicted by a 10-2 majority on 4 April , last year .


He claimed she had instigated the intercourse by first , and without invitation , performing oral sex on him .

He claimed she had instigated the intercourse by performing oral sex on him .


He said he had only offered to use the truncheon as a sex aid but desisted when she shook her head .

he had offered to use the truncheon as a sex aid but desisted when she shook her head .


Jean Southworth , Qc , in mitigation , said : `` This was not a case of him taking away the virginity of this young woman .

Jean Southworth , Qc said : `` This was not a case of taking away the virginity of this woman .


`` He has lost his pension rights and the personal affection of those dear to him and also , when a police officer goes to prison , he often carries an extra load for his misdoings. ''

`` He has lost his pension rights and the affection of those dear to him ''


Anderson , married with two children , attacked the woman in a deserted allotment , after agreeing to give her and a boyfriend a lift home from a discotheque .

Anderson attacked the woman in a allotment , after agreeing to give her and a boyfriend a lift home from a discotheque .


He first dropped the man off and then drove to the allotment .

He dropped the man off and drove to the allotment .


He threatened her by forcing his truncheon under her chin and then raped her .


She said he only refrained from inserting his truncheon into her , after she begged him not to .

he refrained from inserting his truncheon into her , after she begged him not to .


Afterwards he told her not to report the incident because he could have her `` nicked '' for soliciting .

he told her he could have her `` nicked '' for soliciting .


She did not report it because she did not think she would be believed .


Police investigated after an anonymous report .


The victim , now 20 , said she had drunk nine or 10 Pernods with blackcurrant and was merry , but knew what she was doing and saying .

The victim had drunk and was merry , but knew what she was doing .


Kent Police began re-interviewing 1,500 people in Deal yesterday in an unusual move to develop leads on last month 's bombing of the Royal Marines ' barracks in the town .

Kent Police began re-interviewing 1,500 people in Deal to develop leads on last month 's bombing of the Royal Marines ' barracks .


Hundreds arrived to be registered at a special inquiry centre in St Saviour 's church , which will be open from 10am to 10pm until tomorrow night .

Hundreds registered at a inquiry centre , which will be open from 10am to 10pm .


The officers are also anxious to hear from people who noticed any suspicious strangers seeking rented accommodation in the Deal area during the last 18 months .

The officers are anxious to hear from people who noticed suspicious strangers seeking rented accommodation during the last 18 months .


Their latest lead is a white transit van reportedly seen near the barracks in the week before the bombing .

Their latest lead is a white van seen near the barracks the week before the bombing .


This could provide a clue as to the bombers ' whereabouts between 16 September and the bombing , which killed 10 bandsmen .

This could provide a clue as to the bombing , which killed 10 .


A light brown Mk Ii Cortina is believed to have broken down when used by the Ira unit and a black E registration Nissan Micra was seen near the barracks the night before the bombing .

A brown Mk Ii Cortina is believed to have broken down when used and a black E registration Nissan Micra was seen near the barracks .


Among those expected to be re-interviewed are Kathy Brown , 47 , who usually cleans the Campbell Road house , which was let as a holiday home .

Among those expected to be re-interviewed are Kathy Brown who cleans the Campbell Road house .


She said yesterday that the three-bedroom property was capable of sleeping five people comfortably .

She said the property was capable of sleeping five .


Mrs Brown last cleaned the house at the end of July and was away when the Ira suspects used it. Another resident , Williamine Dyson , 65 , who looked after spare keys for the holiday home , said yesterday she saw a man lingering near the base at the end of August and then walking up Campbell Road .

Mrs Brown cleaned the house at the end of July and was away when the suspects used it. Williamine Dyson saw a man lingering near the base at the end of August and then walking up Campbell Road .


She added that she never saw the suspected occupants of the house .

She added she never saw the suspected occupants .


A video showing the alleged Ira safe house at 17 Campbell Road , asked people viewing it to try to remember whether they had seen , inadvertedly had drinks with , or queued at shops with members of the Ira unit .

A video showing the alleged Ira safe house at 17 Campbell Road , asked people to try to remember whether they had seen members of the Ira unit .


Police believe the unit wandered openly in the Deal area and may have visited local pubs .

Police believe the unit wandered in the area .


Drawings of three suspects , two men and a woman , are posted in the church .

Drawings of three suspects , two men and a woman , are posted .


Lists of questions ask about possible suspicious sightings of people and vehicles around the barracks and taxi rides to and from the area to pubs or Dover docks .

Lists of questions ask about suspicious sightings around the barracks and taxi rides to pubs or Dover docks .


Det Chief Insp Nick Biddiss said : `` People may still know things they have forgotten to mention and we hope this exercise will jog their memories. '' Officers sat in booths in a side chapel for people wanting to give confidential interviews .

Det Chief Insp Nick Biddiss said : `` People may know things and we hope this will jog their memories. '' Officers sat in booths for confidential interviews .


Police hope to identify men seen several times in the Campbell Road area in the six days between 16 September , when the Ira unit apparently left the safe house , and the bombing .

Police hope to identify men seen in Campbell Road between 16 September and the bombing .


The officers know that time is against them as new descriptions from members of the public may be distorted by sight of the published artist 's impressions .

officers know descriptions from the public may be distorted by the published artist 's impressions .


They are interested in at least a dozen taxi journeys reported between Dover and the Campbell Road area in the month before the bombing .

They are interested in a dozen taxi journeys between Dover and Campbell Road in the month before the bombing .


The Communists of Poland and Hungary are refusing to lie down and die .


Having been rejected after holding sway for so long , they are now seeking new ways of making friends and influencing people .

they are seeking new ways of influencing people .


It has been confirmed this week that political parties will no longer get financial subsidies , and the party urgently needs new sources of money .

political parties will no longer get financial subsidies , and the party needs money .


Its newspaper , Trybuna Ludu , lost 1.7billion zloties ( £382,500 ) last year ; this year it is expected to lose nearly five times as much .

Its newspaper , Trybuna Ludu , lost 1.7billion zloties last year ; this year it is expected to lose five times as much .


In Hungary , Mr Karoly Grosz , general secretary until last month of the now defunct Hungarian Socialist Workers ' Party ( Hswp ) , wants to reorganise the party and start a new Communist newspaper .

In Hungary , Karoly Grosz , general secretary of the defunct Hungarian Socialist Workers ' Party , wants to reorganise the party and start a new newspaper .


Mr Grosz , seen by many Hungarians as a discredited hardliner , added that there was a need to propagate Communist ideas in Hungary .

Grosz , seen as a discredited hardliner , added that there was a need to propagate Communist ideas .


He seems to be cashing in on the goodwill of those who regret the party 's `` new start '' last month when it renamed itself the Hungarian Socialist Party ( Hsp ) .

He seems to be cashing in on the goodwill of those who regret the party 's `` new start '' last month when it renamed itself the Hungarian Socialist Party .


One objective of Mr Grosz is to see that the Hswp holds its party congress , as in `` normal '' times , early next year .

One objective of Mr Grosz is to see that the Hswp holds its party congress normal .


The Hsp leadership says , however , that since there is no Hswp , there can be no Hswp congress .

The Hsp leadership says that since there is no Hswp , there can be no congress .


The leadership of the Polish Communist Party has this week approved changes committing it to altering its name and participating in free elections within a multi-party system .

the Polish Communist Party has approved changes altering its name and participating in free elections .


It was not plain sailing and orthodox and `` liberal '' Communists will be at each others ' throats --- at local level --- until they hold a full congress next January to determine new policies once and for all and to approve new leaders .

orthodox and `` liberal '' Communists will be at each others ' throats until they determine new policies and approve new leaders .


Some party members are already disssatisfied with Mr Mieczyslaw Rakowski , who became leader only in August , for the way he went immediately to Moscow when the party was in trouble rather than work out a Polish solution .

Some are disssatisfied with Mieczyslaw Rakowski for the way he went to Moscow when the party was in trouble .


According to these members , Mr Aleksandar Kwiasnewski , a `` liberal '' who is much younger than Mr Rakowski and had a rapid rise in the last phase of the Communist government , could replace him .

According to these members , Aleksandar Kwiasnewski , a `` liberal '' , could replace him .


The new party name is also a subject of debate .

The new party name is a subject of debate .


At least 70 alternatives have been submitted , with that of Polish Socialist Labour Party the front-runner .

70 alternatives have been submitted , with Polish Socialist Labour Party the front-runner .


The new party would drop the old insistence on the dictatorship of the proletariat .

The party would drop the insistence on the dictatorship of the proletariat .


Whatever the changes , the new party could have a difficult birth .


West German economists are optimistic about the country 's ability to absorb the hundreds of thousands of refugees from Eastern Europe this year .

West German economists are optimistic about the ability to absorb hundreds of thousands of refugees from Eastern Europe .


They say the refugees will enhance productivity and economic growth .

the refugees will enhance productivity and growth .


`` The opportunities remain good , but miracles can not be expected overnight , '' he said .

`` but miracles can not be expected overnight , '' he said .


The influx coincides with a boom in the building sector , which has been spurred further by the need for housing for the refugees themselves .

The influx coincides with a boom in the building sector , spurred by the need for housing for the refugees .


Yesterday , the Bonn government announced a DM8billion ( £2.7billion ) package for housing construction for East German refugees , whose number has reached 190,000 .

the government announced DM8billion for housing for East German refugees , whose number has reached 190,000 .


The number of ethnic Germans who have arrived so far this year is put at 260,000 .

The of ethnic Germans this year is at 260,000 .


With accommodation increasingly hard to find , school gymnasiums , boats , converted cargo containers and some air shelters are now being used to house the refugees .

school gymnasiums , boats , cargo containers and air shelters are being used to house refugees .


Sociologists agree that `` economic integration '' of the refugees poses a minor problem compared with the `` social aspect '' .

Sociologists agree that `` economic integration '' poses a minor problem compared with the social .


The high motivation , skills and adaptability of the new arrivals create social tensions that will be expressed in economic jealousy .

The motivation , skills and adaptability of the new arrivals create social tensions .


Recent warnings from politicians of all parties that the influx cannot continue indefinitely are therefore seen as being based primarily on fears that the established parties stand to lose votes to the extreme right , notably the Republican Party .

Recent warnings from politicians are seen as being based on fears that the established parties stand to lose votes to the extreme right , the Republican Party .


The trade unions fear that wage demands may have to be lowered because of the refugees ' greater flexibility and readiness to work for less money .

trade unions fear that wage demands may have to be lowered because of the refugees ' readiness to work for less .


A key factor behind the superficial perception that the new arrivals are `` taking jobs '' from West Germany 's 1.8million unemployed is that West German workers are less mobile and flexible .

A key factor behind the perception that new arrivals are `` taking jobs '' is that West German workers are less flexible .


This optimism , however , is not shared by many politicians and trade union leaders .

This optimism is not shared by many politicians and union leaders .


`` The problem here is that in West Germany we have an increasingly split labour market , '' Mr Brauninger explained .

`` in West Germany we have an split labour market , '' Brauninger explained .


Despite high unemployment in some areas there were large openings in sectors such as the electronics and engineering industries in the south .

Despite unemployment in some areas there were large openings in the electronics and engineering industries in the south .


The gap was being filled by the arrivals .


Nonetheless , short-term unemployment among the refugees is likely to remain high .


At present , about a third of the arrivals are unemployed .


Leader comment , page 22


An estimated 600,000 German immigrants --- ethnic Germans from Poland and the Soviet Union , and East Germans --- are expected to settle in West Germany this year , making a 1 per cent growth in the country 's population .

600,000 ethnic Germans from Poland and the Soviet Union , and East Germans are expected this year .


According to Mr Dieter Brauninger , an economist at Deutsche Bank in Frankfurt , the newcomers could not have arrived at a better time : a period of dynamic growth , when gaps created by the fall in the birth rate in the past two decades need to be filled .

According to Dieter Brauninger at Deutsche Bank , the newcomers have arrived when gaps created by the fall in the birth rate need to be filled .


`` In the medium and longer term , we are optimistic that both productivity and consumption will rise , which in turn will have a beneficial effect on investment , '' said Mr Brauninger .

`` we are optimistic that productivity and consumption will rise , which will have a beneficial effect on investment , '' said Mr Brauninger .


Economists believe that the boost to the labour force may be worth an additional 1 per cent a year in the early 1990s .


Such optimistic forecasts are described as `` dangerous '' by the Federal Labour Office .

Such forecasts are described as `` dangerous '' by the Federal Labour Office .


It says economists are ignoring the difficulties of integration , especially of ethnic Germans with large families and language problems .

economists are ignoring the difficulties of integration of ethnic Germans with large families and language problems .


However , the president of the labour office , Mr Egon Franke , said this week that unemployment among refugees --- which has risen sharply in October --- was still only a temporary phenomenon .

the president of the labour office , Egon Franke , said unemployment among refugees was only a temporary phenomenon .


Thousands of Namibians stood in long queues , stretching nearly a mile in some cases , as they waited to vote on the first day of Namibia 's five-day pre-independence election yesterday .

Thousands stood in queues stretching nearly a mile in some cases , as they waited to vote on the first of Namibia 's five-day election .


The length of the queues in Windhoek and Katutura , two of the most densely populated urban areas in Namibia , triggered conjecture that the poll might have to be extended an extra day .

The length of the queues in the most populated areas in Namibia , triggered conjecture that the poll might be extended .


Untag has 2,800 officials --- including 1,100 policemen --- scattered throughout Namibia to keep an eye on proceedings at 358 polling booths .

Untag has 2,800 officials --- including policemen --- throughout Namibia to keep an eye on polling .


The symbol of each of the 10 contesting parties is printed on ballot papers for the illiterate voters who account for 60 per cent of the electorate .

The symbol of each of the 10 parties is printed on ballot papers for the illiterate who account for 60 per cent of the electorate .


One problem relates to a tactical blunder by Swapo .

One problem relates to a blunder by Swapo .


It allowed a splinter party , Swapo-Democrats , to appropriate and register the symbol which Swapo used for nearly 30 years , a hand holding a flaming torch .

It allowed a party , Swapo-Democrats , to appropriate the symbol Swapo used for 30 years , a hand holding a flaming torch .


Swapo went into the election with a symbol which was only weeks old : a man with a raised fist .

Swapo went into the election with a symbol which was weeks old : a man with a raised fist .


The dangers of confusion for illiterate voters is compounded by two factors .


Firstly , the Swapo-Democrat emblem is placed just above the Swapo emblem on the ballot paper , meaning that it will be seen first .

the Swapo-Democrat emblem is placed above the Swapo emblem on the ballot , meaning that it will be seen first .


Secondly , the raised fist in the new Swapo emblem is inconspicuous in the reduced size needed to squeeze Swapo 's new symbol into the box on the ballot paper .

the raised fist in the new emblem is inconspicuous in the reduced size needed to squeeze Swapo 's symbol into the ballot .


For all that , observers are unanimous that Swapo will emerge with a clear majority .

observers are unanimous that Swapo will emerge with a majority .


Its virtual monopoly on the allegiance of the Ovambo , who account for more than half Namibia 's population of 1.3 million , all but guarantees Swapo more than half the voters .

Its monopoly on the Ovambo , who account for half Namibia 's population , guarantees Swapo more than half the voters .


Namibia 's more than 700,000 residents are voting for a 72-member constituent assembly to draw up an independence constitution and prepare the way for full independence next year , perhaps as early as April .

Namibia 's 700,000 residents are voting for a constituent assembly to draw up an independence constitution and prepare for full independence next April .


That was conceded in an interview yesterday by Dr Kenneth Abrahams , a member of the National Front and a former Swapo man who was thrown into jail by Mr Nujoma .

That was in an interview by Dr Kenneth Abrahams , a member of the National Front and a Swapo man who was thrown into jail by Mr Nujoma .


Even if Swapo fails to get the two-thirds of the vote it needs to write its own constitution , it will have little difficulty in persuading one or another of the smaller parties to work with it. It would thus still have a two-thirds majority in the constituent assembly .

if Swapo fails to get the vote it needs to write its constitution , it will have little difficulty persuading the smaller parties to work with it. It would have a majority in the assembly .


Voters left two dominant impressions as they queued in the hot sun --- their determination to cast their ballots in the first free election since Germany began the European conquest of Namibia more than a century ago , and their orderly , disciplined behaviour in the searing heat .

Voters left two impressions --- their determination to cast their ballots in the first free election since the conquest of Namibia , and their disciplined behaviour in the heat .


One of the first Namibians to cast his vote was the Swapo leader , Mr Sam Nujoma , aged 60 .

One of the first Namibians to vote was the Swapo leader , Mr Sam Nujoma .


As he entered a polling booth in Katutura , a black township outside Windhoek , he said : `` Today , we are finally burying apartheid colonialism. '' Mr Nujoma , wearing a pin-striped shirt and double-breasted jacket , was accompanied by Mr Andimba Toivo ja Toivo , Swapo 's secretary-general .

in Katutura , a black township outside Windhoek , he said : `` we are burying apartheid '' Mr Nujoma was accompanied by Mr Andimba Toivo ja Toivo , Swapo 's secretary-general .


Asked for his thoughts on armed struggle now that he was voting , Mr Nujoma said : `` The colonialists imposed the war on us. When we used the barrel of the gun , it was to facilitate the end which was the ballot box. '' Earlier , the director of the United Nations Transitional Assistance Group ( Untag ) , Irish-born Mr Cedric Thornberry , described the election as freer than any poll that has been held in West Belfast .

Mr Nujoma said : `` we used the gun , to facilitate the end which was the ballot box. '' Earlier , the director of the United Nations Transitional Assistance Group ( Untag ) , Irish-born Mr Cedric Thornberry , described the election as freer than any poll held in West Belfast .


Mr Thornberry , who comes from Belfast , expressed two anxieties about the election : first , whether the technical arrangements made for the election would proceed smoothly ; second , whether the use of symbols on ballot papers to enable illiterate voters to identify the party of their choice would work satisfactorily .

Mr Thornberry expressed anxieties about the election : whether the election would proceed smoothly ; whether illiterate voters identify the party of their choice .


On the first issue , he said : `` We --- and the South Africans --- are stretched alarmingly ... stretched very thin. '' If something did go wrong , if tempers flared and violence broke out , they could be hard put to control it. '' The election is being administered by the South African-appointed Administrator-General .

he said : `` the South Africans are stretched thin. '' if violence broke out , they could be hard put to control it. '' The election is being administered by the South African-appointed Administrator-General .


It is , however , being scrutinised by Un officials .

It is being scrutinised by Un officials .


Martin Linton .


The Lawson affair rumbled on in the Commons yesterday with the Labour leader , Mr Neil Kinnock , asking the Prime Minister why she did not `` tell the truth '' when she was asked why the former Chancellor of the Exchequer resigned by television interviewer Brian Walden .

The Lawson affair rumbled on with the Labour leader , Neil Kinnock , asking the Prime Minister why she did not `` tell the truth '' when she was asked why the former Chancellor resigned .


`` In the event of such a development does she think her position would be unassailable ? '' he asked --- echoing the Prime Minister 's earlier comment that Mr Lawson 's position was `` unassailable '' .

`` does she think her position would be unassailable ? ''


But Mrs Thatcher retorted : `` A party that ca n't even decide its name is hardly in a position to criticise anyone. '' The Prime Minister has again denied that there had been any direct British assistance to the Khmer Rouge in Cambodia .

Mrs Thatcher retorted : `` A party that ca n't decide its name is hardly in a position to criticise '' The Prime Minister has denied there had been any British assistance to the Khmer Rouge .


In a letter to Mr Kinnock released last night , she said : `` You ask about support for the Khmer Rouge .

In a letter to Mr Kinnock she said : `` You ask about support for the Khmer Rouge .


The Government 's repugnance for that organisation and everything it stands for has been made absolutely clear on repeated occasions .

The Government 's repugnance for that organisation has been made clear .


No form of British assistance , military or otherwise , has been , or will be , given to the Khmer Rouge. '' But she did not reply directly to Labour 's allegations that the Government had provided aid to others who were supporting the Pol Pot forces .

No assistance has been , or will be , given to the Khmer Rouge. '' she did not reply to allegations that the Government had provided aid to others supporting Pol Pot .


The answer she gave was not that she did n't know Mr Lawson 's stated reason for resigning , but that she found it incomprehensible .

The answer she gave was that she found it incomprehensible .


`` If he had wanted to resign on a point of policy , I could have understood that .

`` resign on a point of policy I could have understood .


Policy is a matter for ministers , '' she said at question time .

Policy is a matter for ministers , '' she said .


`` But I find it totally incomprehensible if someone has held the office of Chancellor with high standing for six years to want to resign over a personality --- with such suddenness and haste. '' The clash came as Mr Kinnock exploited the apparent contradiction between Mrs Thatcher 's claim that she did not know why Mr Lawson resigned and the former Chancellor 's assertion in last Sunday 's Walden interview that he had made it quite clear to the Prime Minister that Sir Alan Walter 's continued presence as her economic adviser was the only issue .

`` I find it incomprehensible to resign over a personality '' Mr Kinnock exploited the contradiction between Mrs Thatcher 's claim and the former Chancellor 's assertion that Sir Alan Walter 's presence as economic adviser was the only issue .


Mr Kinnock said : `` You appear to be the only person left in the country who does not understand why the Chancellor resigned .

Mr Kinnock said : `` You appear to be the only person who does not understand why the Chancellor resigned .


`` Is n't the truth that the Chancellor said to you `` either the adviser goes by the end of the year or I go now '' ?

`` the Chancellor said to you `` either the adviser goes or I go ''


Why ca n't you admit to that truth ? '' Mrs Thatcher replied : `` Policy is a matter for ministers --- advice is not. '' She added , referring to the two meetings she held with Mr Lawson on the afternoon before he resigned : `` I tried to persuade the Chancellor not to go .

Why ca n't you admit to that truth ? '' Mrs Thatcher replied : `` Policy is a matter for ministers --- advice is not. '' I tried to persuade the Chancellor not to go .


It was quite clear he was determined to go and go that day. '' Mrs Thatcher later parried more questions when the Liberal Democrat Mr Charles Kennedy ( Ross , Cromarty and Skye ) asked her whether she felt her `` diminishing credibility '' would be salvaged if she followed the advice of the former chairman of the Tory backbench 1922 Committee , Sir Edward du Cann , that a leadership challenge would clear the air .

he was determined to go that day. '' Mrs Thatcher parried more questions when the Liberal Democrat Mr Charles Kennedy asked her whether she felt her credibility would be salvaged if she followed the advice of the Tory Sir Edward du Cann , that a leadership challenge would clear the air .


Britain was yesterday accused of undermining international efforts to combat the greenhouse effect , as Mrs Thatcher flew to New York to declare to the United Nations her concern about the environment and reveal a number of British initiatives .

Britain was accused of undermining efforts to combat the greenhouse effect , as Mrs Thatcher flew to New York to declare to the United Nations her concern about the environment and reveal British initiatives .


Mrs Thatcher will today announce that she is to double the British contribution of £3 million to the Un Environment Project in Nairobi and give new money to tropical rain forest schemes .

Mrs Thatcher is to double the British contribution of £3 million to the Un Environment Project and give money to tropical rain forest schemes .


Britain is all talk and no action .


It is an internationally co-ordinated public relations exercise with no solid content in it. '' Mrs Thatcher will today emphasise the central role of the Un in global environmental issues .

It is an public relations exercise '' Mrs Thatcher will emphasise the central role of the Un in environmental issues .


She will attack the Hague declaration , a French initiative signed on March 12 , this year , where 24 heads of state proposed a Un agency empowered to impose sanctions on governments that did not reduce emissions of greenhouse gases .

She will attack the Hague declaration , signed on March 12 , where 24 heads of state proposed a Un agency empowered to impose sanctions on governments that did not reduce emissions .


Britain and the Us ignored the conference .


Mrs Thatcher argues that sanctions are not the right course and only consensus will work .

Mrs Thatcher argues that only consensus will work .


This week , at the International Timber Trade Organisation 's conference in Japan , Britain was supported by green groups when it suggested a labelling scheme for tropical hardwood so consumers could choose products manufactured from sustainable timber reserves .

at the International Timber Trade Organisation 's conference , Britain was supported by green groups when it suggested a labelling scheme for tropical hardwood so consumers could choose products from sustainable reserves .


But the initiative was rejected by the countries where tropical forests are being indiscriminately felled for quick cash profits .

the initiative was rejected by countries where tropical forests are being felled for quick cash .


Mrs Thatcher has now rejected the Itto as the international forum to save the tropical forests , instead throwing her support behind the Un 's Tropical Forest Action Plan being run from Rome .

Mrs Thatcher has rejected the Itto , throwing her support behind the Un 's Tropical Forest Action Plan .


This project gives advice to Third World countries on how to manage their farming , forestry and agricultural needs .

This project gives advice to countries on how to manage their farming , forestry and agricultural needs .


Mrs Thatcher has been convinced by her Environment Secretary , Mr Chris Patten , from his days at overseas development that there is an important role for Britain to play in helping countries like Brazil to manage its forests correctly .

Mrs Thatcher has been convinced that there is an important role for Britain in helping countries like Brazil to manage its forests .


She is expected to place great emphasis on Britain 's contribution to controlling the hole in the ozone layer and global warming .

She is expected to place emphasis on Britain 's contribution to controlling the ozone layer and global warming .


But at a 72-nation conference in the Netherlands yesterday , Britain , the United States , Japan and the Soviet Union , which between them emit 50 per cent of the world 's carbon dioxide , blocked a proposed freeze on emissions of the gas by the year 2000 and a 20 per cent reduction by 2005 .

Britain , the United States , Japan and the Soviet Union , which emit 50 per cent of the world 's carbon dioxide , blocked a proposed freeze on emissions by 2000 and a 20 per cent reduction by 2005 .


Instead , Mr David Trippier , the environment minister , insisted the target dates should be dropped as unrealistic and the words `` as soon as possible '' substituted .

, Mr David Trippier , the environment minister , insisted the words `` as soon as possible '' substituted .


He said a number of large economies found it difficult to commit themselves to targets which had not been properly explored and before the International Panel on Climate Change reports scientific evidence next year .

He said large economies found difficult targets which had not been properly explored and before the International Panel on Climate Change reports next year .


This panel , with three committees chaired by Britain , the Us and Soviet Union , is examining the evidence for the Un before recommending how to reduce gas emissions .

This panel is examining the evidence before recommending how to reduce emissions .


Environmental groups believe that because the big industrial nations control these committees and are anxious to avoid curbs on industry and car use , they are using this scientific research as an excuse for taking no action .

Environmental groups believe that because the big industrial nations control these committees , they are using scientific research as an excuse .


Mr Steve Elsworth , Greenpeace air pollution campaigner , said : `` Britain 's contribution at the Dutch conference was to undermine efforts to set any date or make any real targets to deal with global warming .

Steve Elsworth , Greenpeace campaigner , said : `` Britain 's contribution was to undermine efforts to make any real targets .


Mr Trippier then claims the conference as a success , which clearly it is not .

Mr Trippier claims the conference as a success , which it is not .


British Rail has called on four rail unions to agree plans to limit excessive overtime worked by signals and telecommunications engineers as part of a radical review of pay and working conditions following the disaster .

British Rail has called on unions to to limit overtime worked by signals and telecommunications engineers following the disaster .


The unions were invited to urgent talks in a letter yesterday .


He went on : `` Br have not talked to us about limiting overtime , but it says a lot about the industry when limiting shifts to 12 hours a day is considered progress. '' The consequence of the reduction had been to put resignalling work around Waterloo --- which led to the Clapham disaster --- two months behind schedule .

`` it says a lot about the industry when limiting shifts to 12 hours a day is progress. '' The reduction put resignalling work around Waterloo --- which led to the disaster --- two months behind schedule .


Br said it had taken steps to control overtime and to ensure engineers were taking breaks in the hard pressed Southern Region , where skills shortages are most acute .

Br said it had taken steps to control overtime and ensure engineers were taking breaks in the Southern Region , where shortages are acute .


On pay the Clapham report said it was `` abundantly clear '' that pay levels had failed to provide Br with the `` overall size , structure and quality of workforce '' it needed .

the Clapham report said it was `` clear '' that pay levels had failed to provide Br with the `` size , structure and quality of workforce '' it needed .


`` Constraints on recruiting are constraints on safety and have to be removed. '' The report also criticises the rail unions for `` entrenched resistance to change '' .

`` Constraints have to be removed. '' The report criticises the unions for `` resistance to change '' .


Evidence , particularly Mr Knapp 's , proved `` how deep was the mistrust and suspicion employer had for union and union had for employer '' .

Evidence proved `` how deep was the mistrust employer had for union and union had for employer '' .


The Br chairman Sir Robert Reid told a press conference in London yesterday : `` I accept all the inquiry 's recommendations here and now .

The Br chairman Sir Robert Reid told a press conference : `` I accept all the inquiry 's recommendations .


We have taken steps to ensure that the circumstances that led to this tragedy can never be repeated. '' British Rail is investigating the role of temporary hand-signalling in a head-on crash between two trains at Huddersfield which injured 17 people on Monday night .

the circumstances that led to this tragedy can never be repeated. '' British Rail is investigating the role of hand-signalling in a crash between trains at Huddersfield which injured 17 people .


No one was badly hurt in the accident between a trans-Pennine service and a local commuter train on track where modernised signalling is being installed .

No one was badly hurt in the accident on track where modernised signalling is being installed .


Mr Nick Mitchell , the head of personnel for the signals and telecommunications section , said the board had come to certain conclusions about pay and conditions for its 7,000 S&T engineers after a review of manpower and reward systems .

Mr Nick Mitchell , head of personnel for signals and telecommunications , said the board had come to conclusions about pay and conditions for its 7,000 engineers after a review .


`` The point has now been reached where we need to finalise this work. '' A crippling recruitment and retention crisis has seen Br lose vital engineering staff to better paid jobs for example in British Telecom and Mercury , where senior technicians ' rates are up to £60 a week more .

`` we need to finalise this work. '' A recruitment and retention crisis has seen Br lose vital engineering staff to jobs where senior technicians ' rates are £60 a week more .


Br has had to rely on staff working excessive overtime to carry out maintenance and repair work .

Br has to rely on excessive overtime to carry out maintenance and repair work .


Pay rates , overtime --- central issues in this summer 's pay dispute --- and repeated restructuring of the S&T division , are attacked in Sir Anthony Hidden 's report .

Pay rates , overtime and repeated restructuring of the S&T division , are attacked in Sir Anthony Hidden 's report .


Br accepts that measures imposed in mid-1988 to ease staff retention problems have failed .

Br accepts that measures to ease staff retention failed .


Grading was simplified then and S&T staff were offered an extra £1,200 a year in skills allowances subject to satisfactory attendance and working , but skills shortages continue .

Grading was simplified and S&T staff were offered an extra £1,200 a year in skills allowances , but shortages continue .


Mr Jimmy Knapp , general secretary of the National Union of Railwaymen , said yesterday that Br had since moved to stem excessive overtime by ordering a maximum working week of 72 hours .

Mr Jimmy Knapp said Br had moved to a maximum working week of 72 hours .


The basic week is 39 hours .


Detailed evidence has been uncovered showing how Britain played a leading role in preventing hundreds of Italian war criminals standing trial in Yugoslavia , Greece , and Ethiopia at the end of the second world war .

evidence has uncovered how Britain played a leading role in preventing Italian war criminals standing trial in Yugoslavia , Greece , and Ethiopia at the end of the second world war .


Some 1,200 Italians --- most of whom committed atrocities in Yugoslavia --- were listed by the United Nations War Crimes Commission , but none was handed over .

1,200 Italians were listed by the War Crimes Commission , but none was handed over .


Churchill , in particular , was concerned not to weaken the Italian Government and strengthen the hand of Communists who had dominated the wartime resistance movement .

Churchill was concerned not to strengthen the Communists who had dominated the resistance .


`` The longer we can procrastinate , the better for all concerned , '' wrote an Fo official in 1946 .

`` The longer we procrastinate , the better , '' wrote an official in 1946 .


In 1947 Britain and the Us said the matter should be left to the Italian courts .


One of those most wanted by Yugoslavia but allowed to go unpunished was General Mario Roatta .


An Fo memo of 1943 noted `` our information about Roatta confirms the information circulating about him '' .

An Fo memo noted `` our information confirms the information circulating about him '' .


One Italian who was executed for war crimes --- General Bellomo --- was the only anti-fascist army officer at a senior level ; he was found guilty after one of his men shot an escaping British prisoner of war at Bari .

One Italian executed for war crimes --- General Bellomo --- was the only anti-fascist at a senior level ; one of his men shot an escaping British prisoner of war .


Extradition from Britain was blocked for fear of unsettling the post-war anti-Communist government of Italy .

Extradition from Britain was blocked for fear of unsettling the government of Italy .


`` Justice requires the handing over of these people , but expediency , I fear , militates against it , '' wrote a Foreign Office official in a report .

`` Justice requires the handing over of these people , but expediency militates against it , '' wrote a Foreign Office official .


Another recorded that some held high positions in the Ministry of War : their arrest , the report added , would be `` a political embarrassment '' .

some held high positions : their arrest would be `` a political embarrassment '' .


Documents which disclose Britain 's collusion have been found in Un , Us and British archives by Dr Michael Palumbo , an American writer ( who three years ago discovered the Un files on Mr Kurt Waldheim , the Austrian President ) .

Documents which disclose Britain 's collusion have been found in Un , Us and British archives by Dr Michael Palumbo , an American writer who discovered files on Kurt Waldheim , the Austrian President ) .


His research forms the basis of a Bbc 2 Timewatch programme , The Fascist Legacy , A Pledge Betrayed , to be broadcast tonight .

His research forms the basis of a Bbc programme , The Fascist Legacy , A Pledge Betrayed .


One of those named as a war criminal was Marshal Pietro Badoglio , wanted by Ethiopia for ordering the use of poison gas and the bombing of Red Cross hospitals after Italy invaded the country in 1936 .

named as a war criminal was Marshal Pietro Badoglio , wanted by Ethiopia for ordering the use of poison gas and the bombing of Red Cross hospitals .


The Fo noted that he had provided `` valuable assistance '' to the allied cause as Prime Minister after Italy 's surrender in 1943 , and that it would be `` inopportune '' to hand him over to the Ethiopians .

The Fo noted he had provided assistance to the allied cause after Italy 's surrender , and that it would be `` inopportune '' to hand him over .


Most of the 800 named by the commission were wanted by Yugoslavia , and the Fo secretly acknowledged that it had an excellent case .

Most of the 800 named were wanted by Yugoslavia .


Democracy finally arrived in this remote corner of Namibia yesterday , to be greeted with determined enthusiasm .

Democracy arrived in this corner of Namibia , to be greeted with enthusiasm .


Northern Damaraland is Africa as lovers of this continent picture it. Abutting the Skeleton Coast , that legendary graveyard of mariners and ships , it is here that the last of the world 's black rhino range free , while galloping hyenas and lunging kudu buck comprise the main traffic hazards .

Northern Damaraland Abutting the Skeleton Coast it is here the last black rhino range free , while hyenas and kudu buck comprise the main traffic hazards .


`` I want a government where there is no difference between a black man and a white man. '' Above us in the branches , dangled the flag of the National Patriotic Front , an alliance led by an ex-Maoist , Moses Katjiuongua , and a former white Mp , Eben van Zyl .

`` I want a government where there is no difference between black and white man. '' in the branches , dangled the flag of the National Patriotic Front , led by ex-Maoist Moses Katjiuongua , and former white Mp , Eben van Zyl .


`` If Swapo becomes the government it is the same as death , '' said Mr Kangombe .

`` Swapo government is the same as death , '' said Mr Kangombe .


`` They are almost Communists and I do n't want a Communist ruling over me. '' A few miles down the road , at the village of Sesfontein , a political rally was under way .

`` I do n't want Communist ruling '' at the village of Sesfontein , a political rally was under way .


About 150 Damaras and Hereros watched a dozen young village girls dancing in skirts and T-shirts bearing the colours of Namibia 's United Democratic Front , a broad alliance of eight political parties .

Damaras and Hereros watched a village girls dancing in the colours of Namibia 's United Democratic Front , a broad alliance of eight parties .


Chief Jeremiah Gaobaeb , resplendent in a blue kaftan with gold thread , took the megaphone to launch a fierce attack on Swapo .

Chief Jeremiah Gaobaeb took the megaphone to attack Swapo .


`` I thought they were the only party that could rule Namibia .


The Damaras were shocked awake .


Swapo thought they could still depend on the Damara vote .

Swapo thought they could depend on the Damara vote .


But they took people in Angola and Zambia and they murdered and they raped them .

they took people in Angola and Zambia and they murdered raped .


The Damara Council took their own path and said : `` Goodbye Swapo , we want no part of you'' . '' Then it was time for practical advice .

The Damara Council said : `` Swapo , we want no part of you'' . '' it was time for advice .


It is also the Africa of poverty , deprivation , thirst and the memories of recent war .

It is also the Africa of poverty , thirst and memories of war .


`` Behave yourselves , '' he admonished .


`` Put on the clothes you put on to go to church on Sunday .

`` Put on clothes you put on to go to church on Sunday .


You must look your best. '' The mobile Un election team arrived in the evening , with their cardboard polling booths , to service the 435 registered voters of Sesfontein .

look your best. '' The Un election team arrived with cardboard booths , to service the 435 voters of Sesfontein .


The number , of course , was appropriate .


They may not have much impact on the result of Namibia 's election .

They may not have much impact on the result .


But the people will be well dressed , in tribute to the arrival of democracy in the wilds of northern Damaraland .

the people will be well dressed , in tribute to the arrival of democracy .


In the roadside village of Waremquelle , on the way north to Sesfontein , the men wile away the days under the stinkwood trees , pools of shade and conversation amid the heat blazing off the surrounding sands .

In Waremquelle , on the way to Sesfontein , the men wile away the days under the stinkwood trees , pools of shade and conversation .


`` Life here is very hard , '' said Joshua Kangombe , the local headman who was sporting mirror sunglasses , a trilby hat and a leather tie .

`` Life is hard , '' said Joshua Kangombe , the local headman .


`` Most cattle are dead .


We have had no good rain since ... '' He paused , reflectively .


`` Since 1983. '' Under a nearby tree , a group of children were having their school lunch , feverishly jostling each other as they scraped the bottom of a three-legged pot with scraps of bread .

`` Since 1983. '' Under a nearby tree , a group of children were having their school lunch .


A dog snatched fallen morsels from the burning embers of the fire .


`` I just do n't want an apartheid government in Namibia , '' said Naftali Herunga , who confided that he had been a soldier , serving in 102 Battalion --- an ethnic Herero unit --- under the South Africans .

`` I do n't want apartheid in Namibia , '' said Naftali Herunga , who he had been in an ethnic Herero unit under the South Africans .


The Prime Minister 's senior advisers will meet this weekend to try to rescue the Government 's student top-up loans scheme , as the clearing banks --- which would run it on the Treasury 's behalf --- stiffen their opposition .

The Prime Minister 's advisers will meet to rescue the Government 's student top-up loans scheme , as the banks --- which run it on the Treasury 's behalf --- stiffen their opposition .


With only 10 days to finalise the proposals before they must be announced in the Queen 's Speech , Mrs Thatcher 's policy unit , chaired by her senior adviser , Professor Brian Griffiths , is also understood to be considering plans to make sharply increased tuition fees , rather than the block grant , the main means of distributing public money to higher education .

With days to finalise proposals before they must be announced in the Queen 's Speech , Mrs Thatcher 's policy unit , chaired by adviser , Professor Brian Griffiths , is considering plans to make sharply increased tuition fees , the means of distributing public money to higher education .


Legislation on the scheme is due to be unveiled in the Queen 's Speech on November 21 .

the scheme is to be unveiled in the Queen 's Speech .


The scheme , to be introduced next autumn , would give every student an interest-free loan of up to £420 a year , repayable over 10 or more years .

The scheme would give every student an interest-free loan of £420 a year , repayable over 10 years .


The policy unit will also discuss an alternative London School of Economics private sector scheme under which the financial institutions , rather than the Treasury , would lend students money , with repayments collected through National Insurance contributions .

The policy unit will discuss an alternative London School of Economics scheme under which the financial institutions would lend students money , with repayments collected through National Insurance contributions .


This proposal has gathered significant support in recent weeks from higher education chiefs and Tory think-tanks such as the Centre for Policy Studies .

This proposal has gathered support from education chiefs and Tory think-tanks .


Conservative sources believe the Government 's scheme will survive any backbench revolt in the Commons , but run into severe problems in the Lords .

sources believe the Government 's scheme will survive backbench revolt in the Commons , but run into problems in the Lords .


However , they do not expect any radical revision to emerge in the run-up to legislation .

they do not expect radical revision in the run-up to legislation .


But one insider said yesterday that the banks could deal the scheme a mortal blow if they continued to up the price .

one insider said the banks could deal the scheme a mortal blow if they up the price .


`` There 's a real chance that if the banks really push the price high , public spending becomes such that it would allow Mr John MacGregor , the education secretary , to reopen the whole argument. '' In addition , vice-chancellors and students groups have warned the banks they would move their accounts to non-participating institutions .

`` if the banks push the price high , public spending would allow Mr John MacGregor , the education secretary , to reopen the whole argument. '' vice-chancellors and students groups have warned banks they would move their accounts to non-participating institutions .


Dr Nick Barr , senior lecturer in economics at the Lse and co-author of the alternative scheme , said : `` It 's very fragile , and there could be a repeat of the New Zealand situation where the banks simply changed their minds , refused to take part , and scuppered the scheme there. ''

Dr Nick Barr , lecturer in economics at Lse and co-author of the alternative scheme , said : `` It 's fragile , and there could be a repeat of the New Zealand situation where the banks refused to take part and scuppered the scheme ''


The fees would be paid direct to institutions on students ' behalf by local education authorities .

The fees would be paid to institutions on students ' behalf by authorities .


However , the Treasury is known to be resisting this plan , because without a strict cash limit its control over public spending and manpower planning would be weakened .

the Treasury is resisting because without a cash limit its control would be weakened .


This weekend 's meeting is the latest in a series of conferences over the past two weeks during which ministers , their advisers , vice-chancellors , polytechnic directors and senior officials have been thrashing out strategies for expanding the higher education system .

This meeting is in a series of conferences over the past weeks during which ministers , advisers , vice-chancellors , directors and officials have been thrashing out strategies for expanding higher education .


Banking and Tory party sources say that ministerial proposals to charge students a proportion of their tuition fees and other more radical ideas have been abandoned in the face of tough Treasury opposition , the perceived weakening of Mrs Thatcher 's position following Mr Nigel Lawson 's resignation , and her declared intention not to serve a full fourth term if re-elected .

sources say that ministerial proposals to charge students tuition fees have been abandoned in the face of Treasury opposition , the weakening of Thatcher 's position following Nigel Lawson 's resignation , and her intention not to serve a full term if re-elected .


However , bigger special access funds to encourage poorer students , and a scholarship scheme for bright youngsters have not been ruled out .

bigger special access funds and a scholarship scheme have not been ruled out .


The clearing banks , which are deeply sceptical about the commercial value to them of the loans scheme , have used the changed political climate to demand a higher price for their participation .

The banks , sceptical about the value to them of the loans , have used the political climate to demand a higher price for their participation .


This is thought to include demanding a substantial fee for each transaction , indemnities against any change of government or government policy , and for the Government --- not the banks --- to be unequivocally identified as responsible for its introduction .

This is thought to include a fee for each transaction , indemnities against change of government policy , and for the Government to be unequivocally identified as responsible for its introduction .


Labour has said it will scrap the system .


The Labour leadership is monitoring the imminent reselection procedure in Birkenhead , Merseyside , where Mr Frank Field , the independent-minded chairman of the Commons social services committee is under threat from a local leftwing trade union official .

Labour leadership is monitoring the reselection procedure in Merseyside , where Frank Field , the chairman of the Commons social services committee is under threat from a local union official .


Mr Field has said he will resign and cause a byelection if he is not reselected , a move which could divide the party nationally .

Mr Field will resign and cause a byelection if not reselected , which could divide the party .


Mr Field has acknowledged he might lose , but a good turn-out could save him .


If he is defeated and forces a byelection , the party would probably be obliged to expel him .

If defeated , the party would expel him .


Mr Field believes he would win easily , and once returned to the Commons would ask the parliamentary party to give him back the Labour whip .

Field believes he would win , and once returned to the Commons would ask to give him back the Labour whip .


If he does cause a byelection , he will face the charge that he is not prepared to play by the rules laid down by the party conference .

If he does cause a byelection , he will face the charge that he is not prepared to play by the rules laid down by the party .


`` No one wants a byelection , '' said Mr Peter Roberts , the former local party chairman and a supporter of Mr Field .

`` No one wants a byelection , '' said Peter Roberts , a supporter of Mr Field .


`` But if there is one the people of Birkenhead will support him. ''

`` if there is one Birkenhead will support him. ''


In the Commons Mr Field is widely regarded as one of the most thoughtful and persuasive MPs. When he speaks on social issues MPs from all sides listen , but in Birkenhead , Labour left-wingers , including some former supporters , believe his free thinking has gone too far .

In the Commons Mr Field is regarded as thoughtful and persuasive When he speaks on social issues , but in Birkenhead , some former supporters believe his free thinking has gone too far .


Few party members challenge his diligence as an Mp , but they claim he has lost touch with the party and treats all critics as extremists .

Few challenge his diligence as an Mp , but claim he has lost touch with the party and treats critics as extremists .


Mr Field accepts there is tension between him and some Birkenhead activists about the role of an Mp. A supporter said yesterday : `` What they want is to have somebody they can control , '' but Mr Field found it impossible to operate on that basis .

Mr Field accepts there is tension between him and some Birkenhead activists A supporter said : `` they want somebody they can control , '' but Mr Field found it impossible to operate on that basis .


He has set himself the task of trying to discuss the agenda Labour needs to develop over the next two decades on issues such as training , education and poverty .

He has set himself the task to discuss the agenda Labour needs over the next decades on training , education and poverty .


The ideas have come thick and fast --- a basic tax at 12p in the pound with the abolition of all income tax allowances , a flexible school-leaving age between 14 and 18 so 14-year-olds would have the option of leaving for a job in which training is guaranteed , and the reintroduction of child tax allowances .

The ideas have come thick and fast --- a tax at 12p in the pound with the abolition of income tax , a school-leaving age so 14-year-olds would have the option of leaving for a job in which training is guaranteed , and the reintroduction of child tax allowances .


His chief challenger is Mr Paul Davies , a Transport and General Workers ' Union district official .

His challenger is Paul Davies , a Transport Workers ' Union official .


Mr Davies has worked hard to affiliate 15 Tgwu branches , and has written a pamphlet attacking Mr Field 's views on social policy .

Mr Davies has worked to affiliate Tgwu branches and has a pamphlet attacking Mr Field 's social policy .


The reselection result will be announced on December 8 .

The result will be announced December 8 .


Ashake-up of the management and finances of British Rail is proposed by Labour 's transport spokesman , Mr John Prescott , in the wake of the report into the Clapham Junction rail crash .

Ashake-up of British Rail is proposed by Labour 's transport spokesman , Mr John Prescott , in the wake of the report into the Clapham Junction crash .


Labour would establish a new Railway Act , encourage a more dynamic style of management , increase government funding and make the railways more accountable through a consumer regulatory framework .

Labour would establish a new Railway Act , encourage dynamic management , increase government funding and make the railways more accountable .


Bus usage in leading English cities has fallen by a sixth since 1985/86 because of the Government 's deregulation of bus operations , says a study for the Association of Metropolitan Authorities .

Bus usage in English cities has fallen by a sixth since the Government 's deregulation of bus operations .


About 336 million fewer journeys are being taken in Greater Manchester , West Midlands , Merseyside , South Yorkshire , Tyne and Wear , West Yorkshire and Strathclyde .

336 million fewer journeys are being taken .


The study by the transport economist Mr Bill Tyson also shows that fares have risen , and the overall savings to the tax-payer have been a modest £23 million .

The study by economist Mr Bill Tyson shows that fares have risen , and savings to the tax-payer have been a modest £23 million .


Mr Jack Meredith , chairman of the Ama 's public transport committee , said that while bus patronage was declining prior to deregulation , the Tyson report showed that the fall in journeys was between 100 and 200 million more than would have been expected .

Mr Jack Meredith , chairman of the transport committee , said that while bus patronage was declining prior to deregulation , the Tyson report showed the fall was 200 million more than expected .


Mr Tyson says deregulation prompted fares to rise by 23 per cent in real terms in 1986/87 , followed by a 3.7 per cent real increase in 1987/88 .

Mr Tyson says deregulation prompted fares to rise by 23 per cent in 1986/87 , followed by a 3.7 per cent increase in 1987/88 .


Last year , fares rose slightly higher than inflation in most areas .


`` It is clear from the Hidden Report that Br is in desperate need not just of a new financial climate but a new managerial approach as well , '' Mr Prescott said yesterday .

`` Br is in need not just of a new financial climate but a new managerial approach , '' Mr Prescott said yesterday .


Br management was `` incompetent and unimaginative , '' he said If the chairman , Sir Robert Reid , were not due to retire in April , he should be sacked .

Br management was `` incompetent '' If the chairman , Sir Robert Reid , were not due to retire , he should be sacked .


Mr Prescott also warned that simply pumping public money into the railways was not the sole answer .

Mr Prescott warned that pumping money into the railways was not the answer .


`` It would be naive to think that all a Labour government has to do is increase revenue support , encourage greater investment and Britain 's railway system would automatically catch up with the best in Europe , '' he said .

`` It would be naive to think that all a government has to do is increase revenue , encourage investment and Britain 's railway system would catch up with Europe , '' he said .


`` Labour will introduce a new Railway Act that will lay down in law the broad policy objectives that we expect Br to meet , '' he told the Centre for Local Economic Strategies in Sheffield .

`` Labour will lay down the objectives that we expect Br to meet , '' he told the Centre for Local Economic Strategies .


`` These will include tough quality of service targets to improve safety , reliability and passenger comfort. '' The financial framework and policy objectives would be set by a Labour government .

`` These include service targets to improve safety , reliability and passenger comfort. '' The framework and objectives would be set by a Labour government .


An independent national regulatory body would monitor Br 's performance , examine investment schemes , fare policies and management practices .

An independent regulatory body would monitor Br 's performance , policies and practices .


`` There will be a consumer watchdog to deal with the whole range of consumer rights and needs , '' he promised .

`` There will be a consumer watchdog , '' he promised .


Up to four million Ethiopians in the north may face starvation next year as a result of drought , Peter Biles writes from Nairobi .

four million Ethiopians may face starvation next year as a result of drought , Peter Biles writes from Nairobi .


According to the Un 's World Food Programme , twice as many people as originally estimated will need emergency food aid in 1990 .

According to the Un , twice as many people as estimated will need food aid .


-Reuter. .


Death threats .


A French headmaster , Mr Ernest Chenieres , who sparked a controversy by banning Islamic headscarves in the classroom , said yesterday he had received six death threats from Islamic extremists .

French headmaster Ernest Chenieres , who sparked controversy by banning headscarves in the classroom , received six death threats .


-Reuter .


Right gains in poll .


Denmark 's far-right anti-tax Progress Party made gains in Tuesday 's municipal elections at the expense of the ruling Conservatives .

Denmark 's far-right made gains in elections at the expense of the Conservatives .


Poachers shot dead .


Kenyan wildlife rangers have shot dead six poachers in Meru national park , including the murderers of two French tourists , the Director of Wildlife , Mr Richard Leakey , said yesterday in Nairobi .

Kenyan rangers have shot dead six poachers , including the murderers of two tourists , the Director of Wildlife , Richard Leakey , said .


`` We 're particularly concerned about the situation in Tigre , '' the Wfp 's Director of Operations in Ethiopia , Mr David Morton , said .

`` We 're particularly concerned about Tigre , '' the Wfp 's Director in Ethiopia , David Morton , said .


Corruption triples .


China has uncovered 100,000 cases of bribery and corruption this year , triple last year 's rate , said the country 's top prosecutor , Mr Liu Fuzhi .

China uncovered 100,000 cases of corruption this year , triple last year 's rate , said the country 's prosecutor , Liu Fuzhi .


-ap .


Clean-up in Bulgaria .


The Bulgarian Communist Party politburo yesterday set up a top-level investigation into corruption under the deposed leader , Mr Todor Zhivkov , and fired his son as head of a party department .

The Bulgarian Communist politburo set up a top-level investigation into corruption under the deposed leader , Todor Zhivkov , and fired his son as head of a department .


`` It 's become clear that the crop failure there has been far worse than we realised. '' .

`` the crop failure has been worse than we realised. '' .


Rebels told to move .


Islamabad has told Afghan rebel groups to move arms dumps out of populated areas of north-west Pakistan where a huge explosion killed upto 40 people last week .

Islamabad told rebel groups to move arms dumps out of populated areas of Pakistan where a huge explosion killed 40 people .


The order came as rebels announced plans to free two Soviet soldiers captured during the Soviet occupation .

The order came as rebels announced to free two Soviet soldiers captured during the Soviet occupation .


-Agencies. .


Mandela meeting .


Nine South African activists will visit Nelson Mandela next week in the latest talks between the black leader and anti-apartheid campaigners .

activists will visit Nelson Mandela in the talks between anti-apartheid campaigners .


Apossible framework for a pan-European organisation linking countries in Western and Eastern Europe was unveiled here yesterday as the West German Chancellor , Dr Helmut Kohl , formally ruled out any prospect of Bonn seeking German reunification outside the creation of a united Europe .

Apossible framework for a pan-European organisation linking Western and Eastern Europe was unveiled as the West German Chancellor , Dr Helmut Kohl , ruled out seeking German reunification outside the creation of a united Europe .


The new body --- to be set up by the 12 countries of the European Community and the six countries of the European Free Trade Association --- would be open to east European states who opt for democracy .

The body --- to be set up by the European Community and Free Trade Association --- would be open to east European states who opt for democracy .


Unlike his Foreign Minister , Mr Hans-Dietrich Genscher , Dr Kohl had first reacted to the changes in East Germany by highlighting German reunification .

Unlike his Minister , Hans-Dietrich Genscher , Dr Kohl reacted to the changes in East Germany by highlighting reunification .


While underlining the right of the East Germans to opt for unity with their fellow Germans in the Federal Republic , Dr Kohl said this was a matter for their own free choice .

the right of the East Germans to opt for unity with the Federal Republic , Dr Kohl said was a matter for their own free choice .


`` The people of the Gdr do not need lectures on this subject from outsiders , '' commented Dr Kohl , adding that Mr Gorbachev 's survival was vital for the wider movement to democracy and reform in eastern Europe .

`` The people do not need lectures on this subject , '' commented Dr Kohl , adding that Mr Gorbachev was vital for the movement to democracy in eastern Europe .


He concluded that a `` free and united Germany '' was conceivable only in `` a free and united Europe. '' The Chancellor stated that the priority now was for East Germany to move to free and secret elections , a press freed from bureaucratic political control , free trade unions , and the right to form independent parties , he said .

a `` united Germany '' was conceivable only in `` a united Europe. '' The Chancellor stated that the priority was for East Germany to move to free elections , press , trade unions , and parties .


`` The recent declarations of the Gdr Prime Minister , Mr Hans Modrow , contain references which undeniably lead in this direction .

`` The declarations of the Gdr Prime Minister , Hans Modrow , contain references which lead in this direction .


All now depends on how these announcements are implemented. '' While making no secret of the Federal Republic 's readiness to provide massive aid for a democratic East Germany , the Chancellor emphasised that virtually all of eastern Europe , from Poland to Yugoslavia , would have a claim of the support and solidarity of Western Europe .

All depends on how these announcements are implemented. '' making no secret of the Federal Republic 's readiness to provide aid for a democratic East Germany , the Chancellor emphasised all of eastern Europe would have the support and solidarity of Western Europe .


For his part President Mitterrand reported on the steps taken in Paris last weekend by Ec heads of government to bolster the crisis ridden economies of Hungary and Poland .

President Mitterrand reported on the steps taken by Ec heads to bolster the economies of Hungary and Poland .


`` Yugoslavia must also not be forgotton since Yugoslavia was one of the first East European countries to show courage in making change , although its economy has not necessarily benefited from this , '' said President Mitterrand .

`` Yugoslavia was one of the first East European countries to show courage in making change , although its economy has not benefited from this , '' said President Mitterrand .


The attempt to put flesh and blood on the skeleton structure of a possible united Europe emerged during an unprecedented day in the history of the European Parliament .

The attempt to structure a united Europe emerged during an unprecedented day in the European Parliament .


Reflecting both the sense of momentous events in Eastern Europe and the desire to strengthen the political role of the European Parliament , MEPs were unexpectedly addressed yesterday both by Chancellor Kohl and President Mitterrand , President of the European Council .

Reflecting the events in Eastern Europe and to strengthen the European Parliament , MEPs were addressed yesterday both by Chancellor Kohl and President Mitterrand .


The Commission 's thinking about a wider European organisation was set out yesterday by its vice-president , Mr Frans Andriessen , in a report about the proposed European economic space with Efta in which capital , people , trade , and services would move freely .

The thinking was set out by its vice-president , Mr Frans Andriessen , in a report about the proposed European economic space with Efta in which capital , people , trade , and services would move freely .


In the short run this new body is seen by the Commission as a useful means of delaying or diverting the application of countries such as Austria which want to belong to the inner core of the 12 European Community states .

this is a means of delaying the application of countries such as Austria which want to belong to the inner core of the 12 European Community states .


But Mr Andriessen conceded that the 18-country Ees would be presided over by a council of ministers `` shaping decisions by consensus '' .

Mr Andriessen conceded the Ees would be presided over by ministers `` shaping decisions by consensus '' .


Advocates of faster progress to European monetary union were encouraged yesterday by the unambiguous declaration made to the European Parliament by Chancellor Helmut Kohl yesterday that change in eastern Europe could not justify going slow on Ec integration .

Advocates of faster European monetary union were encouraged by the declaration by Chancellor Kohl that change in eastern Europe could not justify slow Ec integration .


Others speculated that the foundations were being laid for a pan-European unity which might stretch from the Urals to the Atlantic .

Others speculated the foundations were being laid for a pan-European unity which might stretch from the Urals to the Atlantic .


The Chancellor also took the opportunity to nuance his support for German reunification in ways which will reassure those fearful that precipitate moves to unification might unsettle the Soviet Union and threaten the improvement in East-West relations .

The Chancellor took the opportunity to nuance his support for German reunification which will reassure those fearful that unification might unsettle the Soviet Union and threaten East-West relations .


David Brindle , Social Services Correspondent .


Doubts remained last night over whether the Government had honoured its promise not to impose cash limits on drugs expenditure in the bill to bring in National Health Service changes published yesterday .

Doubts remained whether the Government had honoured its promise not to impose limits on drugs expenditure in National Health Service changes published yesterday .


The measure , the National Health Service and Community Care Bill , contains the legislation needed for both the Nhs shake-up and enactment of the community care white paper , published only a week ago .

The National Health Service and Community Care Bill , contains legislation for the Nhs shake-up and the community care white paper , published a week ago .


One of the few unexpected measures in the legislation is a clause removing the need for the Health Secretary to authorise private patient facilities in Nhs hospitals .

One of the few unexpected measures is removing the need for the Health Secretary to authorise private patient facilities in Nhs hospitals .


The minister would retain only a right of intervention if hospitals or health authorities `` abused '' their freedom to develop pay-beds at will .

The minister would retain a right of intervention if hospitals `` abused '' their freedom to develop pay-beds .


Inclusion of the measure is bound to fuel the fears of critics who see the bill as paving the way for privatisation of the health service , particularly through the proposed opted-out , self-governing `` Nhs trust '' hospitals and other units .

the measure is bound to fuel critics who see the bill as paving the way for privatisation , particularly through the proposed opted-out `` Nhs trust '' hospitals .


Mr Clarke dismissed such fears .


He said that he did not see the point of a central control over pay beds which was a relic of the Labour governments of the 1960s .

He did not see the point of control over pay beds which was a relic of the 1960s .


Moreover , he did not envisage any circumstances in which he would exercise a right to intervene .

he did not envisage circumstances in which he would intervene .


As expected , the bill provides for the main planks of the Nhs shake-up --- Nhs trusts , indicative drugs budgets , optional practice budgets for some GPs and creation of an `` internal market '' --- though it does so in markedly less robust commercial terminology than was first applied .

the bill provides for --- Nhs trusts , drugs budgets , practice budgets for GPs and an `` internal market '' --- though it does so in less commercial terminology than first applied .


It also leaves open the possibility of extending these measures .

It leaves open the possibility of extending measures .


Although practice budgets are being offered only to larger practices with 11,000 patients or more , the bill sets no such lower limit .

Although budgets are offered only to practices with 11,000 patients or more , the bill sets no lower limit .


Mr Kenneth Clarke , the Health Secretary , said in response to questioning by reporters that there was no provision in the measure to require regional health authorities to keep within their proposed firm drugs budgets .

Mr Kenneth Clarke , said there was no provision to require regional health authorities to keep within their drugs budgets .


One issue clarified by the bill is that `` Nhs contracts '' , the contracts between purchasing health authorities or GPs and service-providing hospitals , will not be legally binding and will confer no contractual rights or liabilities .

One issue clarified by the bill is that `` Nhs contracts '' between purchasing health authorities and service-providing hospitals , will not be legally binding .


Mr Clarke said ministers now accepted that the internal market would initially rely heavily on large-scale , block contracts .

Mr Clarke said ministers accepted that the internal market would rely heavily on large-scale contracts .


Expectations that hospitals would be able to work up detailed costings had been revised .

Expectations that hospitals would work up detailed costings had been revised .


Claiming that health workers ' fears were being overcome and that there was now a much better understanding of the plans , Mr Clarke said : `` There are volunteers all over the service waiting for Parliament to approve these provisions so we can get on with it from next summer onwards. ''

Claiming health workers ' fears were being overcome and there was now a better understanding , Mr Clarke said : `` There are volunteers waiting for Parliament to approve these so we can get on with it ''


This appeared to go back on the health white paper , which had stated in a detailed working document : `` Legislation will be needed in order to require FPCs ( family practitioner committees ) and RHAs to keep to their drug budgets. '' Mr Clarke said : `` What we have got here is the legislation we require .

This appeared to go back on the health white paper , which stated : `` Legislation will be needed to require FPCs and RHAs to keep to their drug budgets. ''


The legislation does not require other than what it 's got. '' The minister therefore seemed to have carried through the understanding reached with the British Medical Association in September .

The legislation does not require other than what it 's got. '' The minister carried through the understanding reached with the British Medical Association .


He said then that general practitioners would remain free to prescribe whatever drugs their patients needed and would not be constrained by cash limits either at Fpc or Rha level .

general practitioners would remain free to prescribe drugs and would not be constrained by limits .


However , the bill does place a `` duty '' on every Rha to ensure that its own and its constituent FPCs ' spending , which will include GPs ' indicative drugs budgets , `` does not exceed the aggregate '' of its income .

the bill does place a `` duty '' to ensure its spending , which will include GPs ' drugs budgets , `` does not exceed '' its income .


The Bma was last night examining this provision to see what , if any , effect it could have on GPs ' prescribing .

The Bma was examining this provision to see what effect it could have on prescribing .


But it was heartened by a reference elsewhere in the legislation that GPs could exceed their drugs budgets if they had `` good cause '' --- a term which the Bma will interpret as patients ' needs .

it was heartened that GPs could exceed their drugs budgets if they had `` good cause '' --- which the Bma will interpret as patients ' needs .


In other respects , the Bma said , the legislation left the public in the dark on key issues such as guaranteed local hospital services , public consultation on opting-out hospitals and quality of care .

the legislation left the public in the dark on issues such as local hospital services , consultation on opting-out hospitals and quality of care .


The driver of a 5,000-gallon tanker , Darren Rushton , of Stoke-on-Trent , raced to warn three people in a cafe as burning fuel poured towards them when his vehicle exploded after a collision outside Oldbury oil terminal , West Midlands .

The driver of a tanker , Darren Rushton , raced to warn people in a cafe as burning fuel poured towards them when his vehicle exploded outside Oldbury oil terminal .


They reached safety seconds before the cafe was engulfed in flames .

They reached safety seconds before the cafe was in flames .


The Pre-School Playgroups Association yesterday launched a nationwide campaign to provide facilities so mothers can return to work .

The Pre-School Playgroups Association launched a campaign to provide facilities so mothers can return to work .


Murder hunt .


A murder hunt was launched yesterday after a body , believed to be that of Monica Cantwell , aged 24 , from Lingfield , Surrey , was found in New Zealand .

A murder hunt was launched after a body , believed to be Monica Cantwell , from Surrey , was found in New Zealand .


Listeria cases increase .


The number of listeria cases rose by a quarter in the first six months of this year , Dr Diane Roberts , of the Central Public Health Laboratory , told a London conference yesterday .

listeria cases rose by a quarter in the first six months of this year , Dr Diane Roberts , of the Central Public Health Laboratory , told a conference .


Help line for pensioners .


A group of charities yesterday launched the Winter Warmth Line telephone advice service for pensioners .

charities launched the Winter Warmth Line telephone advice service for pensioners .


Doctor to be struck off. London sex therapist Dr Brian Richards , convicted in the Us of trying to have his partner killed , was yesterday found guilty of serious professional misconduct by the professional conduct committee of the General Medical Council , who ordered his name struck off.

Doctor struck off. London sex therapist Dr Brian Richards , convicted in the Us of trying to have his partner killed , was found guilty of serious professional misconduct by the General Medical Council


Broadcast warning .


Powers claimed by the Home Secretary to intervene over the content of programmes would radically alter the constitution of broadcasting , Mr Anthony Lester , Qc , told the Court of Appeal yesterday in winding up an appeal against the High Court refusal to outlaw restrictions on interviews with named groups , including Sinn Fein .

Powers claimed by the Home Secretary to intervene over the content of programmes would alter the constitution of broadcasting , Mr Anthony Lester , Qc , told the Court in an appeal against the High Court refusal to outlaw interviews with groups , including Sinn Fein .


Judgment was reserved .


Welsh oil spill .


Anti-pollution vessels were last night tackling a mile-long oil slick after the 80,000-ton Texaco Westminster and a tug collided at Milford Haven .

Anti-pollution vessels were tackling a mile-long oil slick after the Texaco Westminster and a tug collided at Milford Haven .


Council uproar .


A Kensington and Chelsea council meeting was suspended and police called last night during uproar over plans to redevelop Portobello Road market when a motion to shelve plans pending consultation was voted down after stall-holders presented an opposition petition .

A Kensington and Chelsea council meeting was suspended and police called during uproar over plans to redevelop Portobello market when a motion to shelve plans was voted down after stall-holders opposition .


Mothers ' campaign .


About 400 rebel soldiers returned to their barracks yesterday morning , ending the siege of Makati after they had occupied the capital 's affluent business district for six days .

400 rebel soldiers returned to their barracks yesterday , after they had occupied the capital 's business district for six days .


The mutineers , all members of an elite scout-ranger regiment , marched to a nearby army camp , defiantly saying that they did not surrender to the government .

The mutineers marched to a nearby army camp , saying that they did not surrender .


In the past month , Mrs Aquino 's popularity has declined , and there was growing disenchantment with her government 's ability to provide adequate transport and power , and to contain corruption .

Aquino 's popularity has declined , and there was growing disenchantment with her government 's ability to provide transport and power , and to contain corruption .


Government officials say that state of emergency declared by Mrs Aquino on Wednesday should make it easier for the government to control prices and improve transport and other services .

officials say that state of emergency declared by Mrs Aquino should make it easier to control prices and improve transport .


The decree allows the government to take over public utilities and businesses .

The decree allows the government to take over public businesses .


A cabinet reshuffle is expected to follow .


Replacing cabinet secretaries who are popularly perceived as ineffective was `` part of the stocktaking that has to be done '' , the press Secretary , Mr Adolfo Azcuna , said .

Replacing cabinet secretaries who are ineffective was `` part of the stocktaking done '' , the press Secretary , Mr Adolfo Azcuna , said .


At the same time , Mrs Aquino is mobilising popular support for her beleaguered government .

Mrs Aquino is mobilising support for her government .


In an emotional television appeal yesterday , she called on Filipinos to bring their families to a mass today at a religious shrine on a main motorway in suburban Manila .

she called on Filipinos to bring their families to a mass at a shrine in Manila .


The spot marks the place where where hundreds and thousands gathered in February 1986 for a popular uprising that overthrew the late President Ferdinand Marcos , and made Mrs Aquino the President .

The spot marks where where thousands gathered in February 1986 for a popular uprising that overthrew Ferdinand Marcos , and made Mrs Aquino the President .


Cardinal Jaime Sin , the influential Archbishop of Manila , who called on Filipinos to support the uprising against Marcos , joined Mrs Aquino 's appeal .

Cardinal Jaime Sin , the Archbishop of Manila , called on Filipinos to support the uprising against Marcos .


`` The future of the nation is in your hands , '' he said in a radio broadcast .

`` The future of the nation is in your hands , '' he said .


`` We have won some victories , '' said Capitain Danilo Lucas , a West Point graduate who took part in the rebellion .

`` We have won victories , '' said Capitain Danilo Lucas , a West Point graduate who took part in the rebellion .


The rebels left Makati after negotiations with military officers and marched back to their barracks with rifles , bazookas , and machine-guns , chanting : `` No surrender , the fight goes on. '' Brigadier-General Arturo Enrile , the government negotiator , said the mutineers had initially demanded Mrs Aquino 's resignation , but eventually `` reason prevailed over whatever political or ideoligical convictions they had. '' Gen Enrile went on : `` I told them they would be treated fairly , justly and humanely but they must be man enough to take the consequences of their actions. '' At the camp , the rebel troops were welcomed with a banner that read : `` Welcome home. '' They shook hands and embraced government soldiers .

The rebels left negotiations chanting : `` No surrender '' Brigadier-General Arturo Enrile , the government negotiator , said the mutineers initially demanded Mrs Aquino 's resignation , but eventually `` reason prevailed over convictions '' Gen Enrile went on : `` I told them they would be treated justly but they must take the consequences of their actions. '' the rebel troops were welcomed with a banner that read : `` Welcome home. '' They embraced government soldiers .


`` We will not surrender even if it takes forever , '' said Corporal Roy Bantung .

`` We will not surrender , '' said Corporal Roy Bantung .


`` The government must change .


The president must change her policies. ''


`` We are not surrendering , we are voluntarily going back to barracks. '' In the central Philippine city of Cebu , meanwhile , negotiations with the 200 army rebels who seized an air force base are at a stalemate .

In the Philippine city of Cebu , negotiations with the army rebels who seized an air base are at a stalemate .