Morning Blog

Good morning everyone.

Songda is on the move and the rain is increasing here now. We are hoping that like the last two big typhoons in 2010, there could be a last minute change in direction over the Pacific instead of hitting us head on. Fingers crossed, well the fingers that are not plugging up a leak that is.

Will make this short as I have a Skype date with my favourite Welshman at the top of the hour. Take care and be safe. Sayonara from my rainy but not yet very windy corner of Tokyo. Mata ashita ne.

Just a heads up. This might be the last Sunday Morning Blog I do for awhile. I’d like to have this one day a week where I can relax on hubby’s only day off from work, which is Sunday. I hope you don’t mind.
———————————————————————————————————–

A few stories and opinions from around the globe.
=================================

Regulators never questioned one-page document
Memo emblematic of disaster plan flaws

http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/nn20110529a1.html

—-

France, U.S., U.K. committed to nuke power, Germany resolutely opposed, Italy’s plans on hold
G-8 differ in reactions to Fukushima

http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/nn20110529a2.html

—-

As nuke workers wait, tainted water climbs

http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/nn20110529a3.html

—-

Power outages, downed communication lines knocked out most radiation monitoring systems in disaster areas

http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/nn20110529a4.html

—-

Foul-smelling fish and seaweed plague survivors of earthquake and tsunami

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/news/20110528p2a00m0na018000c.html

—-

Cool pillow cases offer new energy-saving option ahead of predicted power crunch

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/news/20110528p2a00m0na021000c.html

—-

News Navigator: What kinds of donations are given to Japan disaster victims?

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/news/20110528p2a00m0na022000c.html

—-

28C in the middle of our summer plus the in the 90’s humidity, and you might just as well be sitting outside in the heat.
————

Tokyo gov’t adopts ‘daylight savings time’ in summer energy savings plan

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/news/20110528p2a00m0na016000c.html

—-

INTERNATIONAL NEWS
===============

Libya: Coalition forces prepare two-pronged blitz to finish off Gaddafi

British, French and other Nato forces were on Saturday night preparing a two-pronged blitz to try to finish off Col Gaddafi as already slender hopes for a peaceful resolution to the Libyan crisis faded.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/africaandindianocean/libya/8543882/Libya-Coalition-forces-prepare-two-pronged-blitz-to-finish-off-Gaddafi.html

—-

Gaddafi to be told to stand down or face Apache attack

If South African president Jacob Zuma’s peace mission fails, Nato will deliver its heaviest blow to Libyan leader’s forces

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/may/28/gaddafi-nato-apache-attack-libya

—-

Tunisia: Birthplace of the Arab Spring fears Islamist insurgence

The uprisings that swept North Africa and the Middle East began in Tunisia. But, as Andrew Gilligan finds out, the country is still searching for its happy ending.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/africaandindianocean/tunisia/8543674/Tunisia-Birthplace-of-the-Arab-Spring-fears-Islamist-insurgence.html

—-

After Ratko Mladic arrest, attention turns to Goran Hadzic, Serbia’s last remaining war criminal

With the arrest of Ratko Mladic, Serbia is now under pressure to capture one last remaining alleged war criminal – Goran Hadzic.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/europe/serbia/8544168/After-Ratko-Mladic-arrest-attention-turns-to-Goran-Hadzic-Serbias-last-remaining-war-criminal.html

—-

Really it was someone else’s fault, isn’t that always the case with these guys?
————

Ratko Mladic says all Serbs must share the guilt

It was Milosevic’s fault, says the man charged with orchestrating the biggest massacre in Europe since the last world war

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/may/28/ratko-mladic-serbs-share-guilt

—-

Hundreds of Palestinians cross reopened Gaza-Egypt border

Post-revolution move is hailed as ‘first step towards breaking the siege’, but Israel voices concerns

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/may/28/egypt-gaza-border-reopened-palestinians

—-

I can’t see what is so wonderful about this. It’s only those who have profited from the billions of dollars poured into Afghanistan who will reap any benefits. not the people of the country.
————

Kabul gold rush: western billions bear fruit in luxury property boom for Afghan capital

Kabul is witnessing an unlikely boom in luxury properties as the billions spent in Afghanistan by the West begin to bear unexpected fruit.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/asia/afghanistan/8543718/Kabul-gold-rush-western-billions-bear-fruit-in-luxury-property-boom-for-Afghan-capital.html

—-

Trafficked children condemned to a nightmare by state neglect

Thousands of trafficked children are being abused and murdered by their captors, but UK officials remain indifferent and sceptical

http://www.guardian.co.uk/society/2011/may/28/trafficked-children-condemned-state-neglect

—-

Shocking.
————

Cancer patients denied last wish to die at home because of shortage of nurses

70,000 cancer patients in England and Wales die in a hospital bed every year, despite wanting to be at home

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/may/28/cancer-patients-nurses-shortage

—-

Andrew Lansley forced to make U-turn on public health campaign cuts

Health secretary attacked after calls to smoking, drugs and lifestyle helplines plunged following spending freeze

http://www.guardian.co.uk/politics/2011/may/28/andrew-lansley-u-turn-public-health-cuts

—-

Honduran police turn a blind eye to soaring number of ‘femicides’

Women are being murdered at the rate of one a day, yet a report by Oxfam accuses the police of ‘systematic indifference’

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/may/29/honduras-blind-eye-femicides

—-

Dominique Strauss-Kahn: Maid’s family describe ‘pious, respectable’ girl who grew up in remote rural Guinea

As the hotel maid who accused Dominique Strauss-Kahn of rape prepares for the trial in New York, her family 4,000 miles away describe the ‘pious, respectable’ girl who grew up in remote Guinea.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/dominique-strauss-kahn/8543743/Dominique-Strauss-Kahn-Maids-family-describe-pious-respectable-girl-who-grew-up-in-remote-rural-Guinea.html

—-

DAVID MITCHELL

Rich, bored and unpopular – Lord Ashcroft is the perfect pylon designer

It might be an idea to hand this poisoned chalice to someone with nothing to lose

http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/2011/may/29/david-mitchell-lord-ashcroft-pylons

—-

TRIVIA QUIZ

Yesterday’s answer. El Salvador.

Today’s question.

What did visionary Czech scientist Otto Wichterle produce in his kitchen using a contrption made with an Erector Set, bike parts, and a phonograph motor?

—-

The big picture: the former Jackie Kennedy with new husband Aristotle Onassis at Heathrow

In 1968, JFK’s widow united American glamour with European super-wealth when she wed a Greek shipping magnate – to the dismay of many

http://www.guardian.co.uk/theobserver/2011/may/29/jackie-kennedy-aristotle-onassis-1968

—-

Amnesty International marks 50 years of fighting for free speech

Amnesty International: campaigning organisation started by Peter Benenson to free prisoners of conscience celebrates evolution from first protest

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/may/29/amnesty-international-marks-50th-birthday

—-

Shell’s battle for the heart of Ireland

For generations, the people of Erris have been farming and fishing along the remote coast of County Mayo. When gas was discovered offshore, Shell pounced. But it hadn’t bargained for the unyielding resistance of the community

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/may/29/shell-ireland-corrib-gas-project

—-

24 hours in pictures

A selection of the best images from around the world

http://www.guardian.co.uk/news/gallery/2011/may/28/24-hours-in-pictures-gallery

Good morning everyone. Welcome to your Memorial Day weekend.

Won’t chat long, still have a few things to check and prepare just in case typhoon “Songda” does hit us as predicted during the weekend or Monday. The rain has been constant all day long, but nothing like the torrential rain we have been told to expect. Not making things any easier is the news that the damaged Fukushima nuclear plant is in no condition to withstand heavy rain and wind. A very unsettling prospect.

So I should get on with my securing and last minute checking. Hope you will have a good day. Take care and be safe. Sayonara from my dark for most of the day corner of Tokyo. Mata ashita ne.
—————————————————————————————————–

A few stories and opinions from around the globe.
================================

Fukushima school limit: 1 millisievert

http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/nn20110528a1.html

—-

Fukushima Pref. teachers get dosimeters

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110527005113.htm

—-

Assistance assurances for Japan as nuclear crisis, implications take center stage at summit
G-8 urges atomic safety standards

http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/nn20110528a2.html

—-

Kansai prefectures on board with Son’s huge solar energy project

http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/nn20110528a4.html

—-

Crippled nuke plant not prepared for heavy rain, wind

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/news/20110528p2g00m0dm013000c.html

—-

IAEA expert team inspects crisis-hit Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/news/20110528p2g00m0dm003000c.html

—-

Criteria to assume missing people as dead undecided

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/news/20110528p2g00m0dm012000c.html

—-

INTERNATIONAL NEWS
===============

Good, now get started.
————

Ratko Mladic is fit enough to face trial for Bosnian massacres

Ratko Mladic, the Butcher of Bosnia, is fit enough to be extradited to the UN war crimes tribunal in The Hague, a court in Serbia has ruled, dismissing his family’s claims that he is too ill to face justice.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/europe/serbia/8541917/Ratko-Mladic-is-fit-enough-to-face-trial-for-Bosnian-massacres.html

—-

I’m not really sure how I feel about a role for Russia in this.
————

G8 summit: Russia agrees to mediate Gaddafi exit strategy

Russia has agreed to mediate an exit strategy with Col Muammar Gaddafi after appeals by President Barack Obama and President Nicolas of Sarkozy of France for his help in ending the stalemate in Libya.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/africaandindianocean/libya/8542616/G8-summit-Russia-agrees-to-mediate-Gaddafi-exit-strategy.html

—-

Arab Spring: protests in Yemen and Egypt while fighting continues in Libya-in pictures

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/picturegalleries/worldnews/8542574/Arab-Spring-protests-in-Yemen-and-Egypt-while-fighting-continues-in-Libya.html

—-

Egypt to open Gaza border crossing

Hamas praise ‘courageous decision’ to allow Palestinians first free passage out of Gaza for four years

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/may/27/egypt-opens-rafah-border-crossing

—-

Libya: In the line of fire

Guy Martin was one of a group of five photojournalists covering fierce street fighting in the Libyan city of Misurata when they were hit by a mortar attack. His colleagues Tim Hetherington and Chris Hondros were killed, and Martin himself suffered serious injuries. Jessica Salter hears his story

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/africaandindianocean/libya/8541161/Libya-In-the-line-of-fire.html

—-

Good luck to them.
————

Yemen president launches air strikes as rebels advance towards Sana’a

Ali Abdullah Saleh, the Yemeni president, launched air strikes on Friday as he mounted a desperate rearguard action to prevent the capital city Sana’a from falling to tribal fighters seeking his overthrow.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/middleeast/yemen/8542813/Yemen-president-launches-air-strikes-as-rebels-advance-towards-Sanaa.html

—-

35 feared dead after Pakistan bus crash

Up to 35 people are feared dead after the bus they were travelling in plunged into a river in Pakistani Kashmir on Friday, police said.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/asia/pakistan/8541678/35-feared-dead-after-Pakistan-bus-crash.html

—-

Ethiopia ‘day of rage’ hopes to oust Meles Zenawi from power

Democracy activists plan protest aimed at ending prime minister’s two-decade authoritarian rule

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/may/27/ethiopia-day-of-rage-protest

—-

David Cameron defends aid spending at G8 summit

PM launches passionate defence of Britain’s commitment to international aid and calls on other leaders to fulfil their pledges

http://www.guardian.co.uk/politics/2011/may/27/david-cameron-defends-aid-g8

—-

I suppose when you are born with a “silver spoon” in your mouth, you just have to keep up appearances, right mate?
————

David Cameron spent £680,000 of taxpayers’ cash on Downing Street

Refurbishments revealed in government records, including £30,000 for No 11 flat

http://www.guardian.co.uk/politics/2011/may/27/david-cameron-taxpayers-home-improvements

—-

Murdoch’s shenanigans on parade yet again.
————

Phone hacking: police warn Mail journalists of voicemail interceptions

Mail on Sunday and Daily Mail may have been targeted by News of the World investigator Glenn Mulcaire

http://www.guardian.co.uk/media/2011/may/27/phone-hacking-mail-journalists

—-

This must have been terrible, but I imagine that dropping at this speed, many of the passengers would have lost consciousness before the plane hit the ocean.
————

3.5 minutes of terror: Air France crash dropped at 10,000 feet a minute

Passengers on an Air France flight plunged for three and a half minutes before crashing into the Atlantic, killing all 228 on board, after it lost speed and stalled while the main pilot was resting, the first evidence from black boxes has found.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/europe/france/8541703/3.5-minutes-of-terror-Air-France-crash-dropped-at-10000-feet-a-minute.html

—-

Spanish protesters clash with police over clean-up

Violence breaks out around Barcelona’s Plaça de Catalunya, the first trouble after 12 days of protests

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/may/27/spanish-protesters-clash-with-police

—-

UN warns of food riots in developing world as drought pushes up prices

European dry spell and commodities speculation combine to push up average cereal costs by 71% to record levels

http://www.guardian.co.uk/business/2011/may/27/food-riots-warning-by-un-as-commodities-soar

—-

I said this here about a month ago.
————

WikiLeaks accused Bradley Manning ‘should never have been sent to Iraq’

Guardian exclusive: Soldier held over US intelligence leak was known to be mentally fragile and unsuited to army life

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/may/27/bradley-manning-wikileaks-mentally-fragile

—-

Internet security: cookie monster unleashed following EU ruling

Browsing the internet may become frustrating as a ruling forces all websites to gather user consent before storing data

http://www.guardian.co.uk/money/2011/may/28/internet-security-cookie-eu-ruling

—-

Palin and her bus tour and now Giuliani leading a poll, come on you guys, admit it, you really have no one for 2012. This is as laughable as it is pathetic.
————

Rudy Giuliani surprise leader in lastest Republican poll

Rudy Giuliani came out on top of a new survey of the 2012 Republican presidential primary field, even though the former New York Mayor has not so far jumped into the race.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/us-election/8543324/Rudy-Giuliani-surprise-leader-in-lastest-Republican-poll.html

—-

TRIVIA QUIZ

Yesterday’s answer.

The Persian Gulf War.

Today’s question.

What’s the only Central American country without a coastline on the Caribbean?

—-

Congo: Across the spectrum – in pictures

Soldiers’ uniforms turn purple, vegetation magenta … the infrared film used by photographer Richard Mosse forces us to see the conflicts of Congo in different ways

http://www.guardian.co.uk/artanddesign/gallery/2011/may/28/richard-mosse-infrared-photographs-congo

—-

Freedom Riders hit the road again, 50 years after US civil rights milestone

Civil rights activists who helped to end segregation at bus and train stations reunite in Jackson, Mississippi

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/may/27/freedom-riders-50-years-mississippi

—-

Le Quattro Volte: ‘A film with the heart of a saint and the soul of a vegetable’

Xan Brooks admires the quiet majesty of Michelangelo Frammartino’s drama about one man and his goats

http://www.guardian.co.uk/film/video/2011/may/27/le-quattro-volte

—-

Mugabe is a lunatic, he believes he is royalty.
———-

In jail: Zimbabwe police sergeant who dared to use Robert Mugabe’s loo

Alois Mabhunu may face a year in prison for insulting the president after being caught short at trade fair

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/may/27/police-sergeant-jail-mugabe-loo

—-

24 hours in pictures

A selection of the best images from around the world

http://www.guardian.co.uk/news/gallery/2011/may/27/1

Good morning everyone.

I’ve been out and I was so happy to get back to the safety of my own house. Going out to normally crowded areas of Tokyo is always an adventure, especially when the crowds you meet are mostly going in the opposite direction from where you are trying to go to. I survived by hanging on to pavement railings when the surge started, looking right and left constantly, then attempting a quick rush into the lobby of the photo studio where I always have any official photos taken. I was shaken but not stirred, and relieved to be in one piece. 😯

Have any of you ever had a successful photo from one of those maniac photo booths they put all over the city? I come out looking like prisoner number 999 every time, and my husband’s driving licence photo of a few years ago, would have earned him a place on the 10 most wanted list. I had to pay a little extra so that they would be ready today, and they have just been delivered. Not exactly my best, but they will have to do because in the usual kerfuffle of leaving the house, I forgot my hair brush and my lipstick when Ollie started to do his upside down, tickle my tummy pose just as I stepped into the hallway. Never mind, no one will ever see them unless I rob a bank or steal an old lady’s handbag. 🙂

So I will wish you all a good day. Take care and be safe. Sayonara from my as not yet rainy corner of Tokyo, although the weather forecast has given rain for a week. Mata ashita ne.
—————————————————————————————————————

A few stories and opinions from around the globe.
================================

Fukushima No. 1 eyed as site for nuke fuel graveyard

http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/nn20110527n1.html

—-

Farmers in 5 prefectures to demand TEPCO pay 10 bil. yen in damages

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/news/20110527p2g00m0dm004000c.html

—-

Marine debris hampers fishing

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110526005611.htm

—-

Iwate Pref. OK’s handover of unclaimed cars

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110526005174.htm

—-

Miyagi areas devising restoration plans

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110526006118.htm

—-

INTERNATIONAL NEWS
===============

Great news for many who have waited for justice for far too long.
————

Ratko Mladic arrested: Serb general called to account after 16 years on the run

Ratko Mladic once went by the self-anointed title of “God”, but to thousands of Muslims in the Balkans, the man arrested by Serbian special forces on Thursday was the devil himself.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/europe/serbia/8539628/Ratko-Mladic-arrested-Serb-general-called-to-account-after-16-years-on-the-run.html

—-

Ratko Mladic spearheaded the Serbian war machine in the Balkans

Ratko Mladic was the brutish army commander who embodied the vengeful Serbian nationalism that swept the Balkans in the 1990s.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/europe/serbia/8539951/Ratko-Mladic-spearheaded-the-Serbian-war-machine-in-the-Balkans.html

—-

Ratko Mladic: An old man faces justice

Belgrade has sent a clear message that it intends to turn the page and start rebuilding the country and the region

http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/2011/may/27/ratko-mladic-serbia-editorial

—-

Why did Ratko Mladić’s arrest take so long?

I will never forget the horror in the eyes of Srebrenica refugees. Sixteen years on, my faith in international justice has waned

http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/2011/may/26/ratko-mladic-arrest-srebrenica-refugees

—-

Then again, Cameron’s fears could just be pure scare tactic speculation, as the majority in the ME don’t favour extremism for their futures.
————

Arab Spring will add to extremism if we do not help, says David Cameron

The Arab spring risks fuelling extremism and immigration unless fledgling democracies are given help by the West, David Cameron has warned.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/politics/david-cameron/8539420/Arab-Spring-will-add-to-extremism-if-we-do-not-help-says-David-Cameron.html

—-

Real comeuppance would be if he were killed by the people he tried to kill. Bloody coward!
————

Libya: Gaddafi ‘increasingly worried’ he will be killed by Nato

Col Muammar Gaddafi is “increasingly worried” he will be killed by Nato and has taken to hiding in Libyan hospitals to avoid air strikes, British intelligence reports suggest.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/g8/8540047/Libya-Gaddafi-increasingly-worried-he-will-be-killed-by-Nato.html

—-

Nato attacks in Libya: key targets, day by day

Nato has been bombarding pro-Gaddafi forces in Libya since 31 March 2011 in Operation Unified Protector. Our map shows the targets reported.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/news/datablog/interactive/2011/may/23/libya-nato-bombing-no-fly-zone

—-

Refugees from Libya attacked in Tunisian desert

Hundreds who fled Gaddafi regime left without shelter as locals ransack and torch refugee camp

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/may/25/libya-refugees-gaddafi-regime-attacked

—-

Thousands flee Yemen capital amid civil war fears

Thousands of panicked civilians have fled heavy fighting in the Yemeni capital Sana’a yesterday amid growing fears that President Ali Abdullah Saleh’s refusal to stand down could trigger a civil war.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/middleeast/yemen/8539225/Thousands-flee-Yemen-capital-amid-civil-war-fears.html

—-

Hillary Clinton arrives in Pakistan amid tense relations

Hillary Clinton arrives in Pakistan on surprise visit amid frayed relations after death of Osama bin Laden

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/may/27/hillary-clinton-pakistan-surprise-visit

—-

Contract killers as young as 15 recruited to do drug syndicates’ dirty work

Turkish crime gangs in north London thought to be linked to spate of killings

http://www.guardian.co.uk/uk/2011/may/26/contract-killers-drug-gangs-london

—-

Hands off our health care!!
————

NHS reform bill sent back to MPs for examination

Health and social care bill to be delayed by six months as Nick Clegg says it would be wrong to ‘bounce’ it through parliament

http://www.guardian.co.uk/society/2011/may/26/nhs-reform-bill-sent-back

—-

Not only are they the scum of the earth, they are also bad losers.
————

Far-right attacks escalate after BNP election defeats

Glass and rocks hurled at anti-racism meeting in east London

http://www.guardian.co.uk/uk/2011/may/27/far-right-attacks-rise

—-

What an absolute monster.
————

Abortion clinic doctor charged with infecting patients with hepatitis C

Anaesthesiologist James Latham Peters charged with endangering life of 49 women at clinic in Melbourne

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/may/27/australian-doctor-charged-hepatitis-c

—-

TRIVIA QUIZ

Yesterday’s answer.

Cimarron (1931) Dances With Wolves (1990) and Unforgiven (1992) Looks like KT got all 3 correct answers. Was that right off the top of your head KT, if so, well done.

Today’s question.

What marked the first time since the Revolution that the U.S. accepted direct financial aid to fight a war?

—-

Major questions raised over routine treatment for shock in children – video

Doctors stunned by results of trial carried out in Africa, which showed excess deaths in children who had been treated by Feast

http://www.guardian.co.uk/society/2011/may/26/shock-treatment-feast-trial-results

—-

I wonder if they do day trips?

Beautiful pictures.
————

Cosmos Close-Up: wonders of space from our solar system to the edge of the Universe

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/science/picture-galleries/8530995/Cosmos-Close-Up-wonders-of-space-from-our-solar-system-to-the-edge-of-the-Universe.html

—-

Woman to swim from Cuba to Florida 30 years after first attempt

A 61-year-old American woman plans to swim through shark infested waters from Cuba to Florida after failing to complete the feat 30 years ago.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/northamerica/usa/8540384/Woman-to-swim-from-Cuba-to-Florida-30-years-after-first-attempt.html

—-

Oops, that’s a huge thing to lose.
————

£900,000 State coach made for the Queen ‘missing’

A £900,000 handmade state coach designed as a gift for the Queen’s 80th birthday has vanished in Australia.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/queen-elizabeth-II/8537787/900000-State-coach-made-for-the-Queen-missing.html

—-

Fun with David Mitchell
————

David Mitchell’s Soapbox: Phone calls – video

David questions the modern assumption that everything is quicker and easier to sort out by text, rather than via the mystical language of the mouth

http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/video/2011/may/26/david-mitchell-soap-box-phone-calls-video

—-

Viral Video Chart: Obama hits a bump in the road

Obama’s cavalcade comes to an embarrassing standstill, Japanese teams stage a pitched battle in the name of sport, and a child has fun with an otter in this week’s roundup

http://www.guardian.co.uk/media/pda/2011/may/27/1

—-

Hardly a great image for Ralph Lauren. Hard to live down I should think.
————

Mexico: youth follows drug barons’ fashion with Ralph Lauren polo shirts

Branded shirts worn by arrested barons have become a trend among youth who ‘want to look like the bad guys’

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/may/26/mexico-ralph-lauren-polo-shirts

—-

24 hours in pictures

A selection of the best images from around the world

http://www.guardian.co.uk/news/gallery/2011/may/26/24-hours-in-pictures

Good morning everyone.

As I do every Thursday afternoon, I’ve just finished talking with my favourite Welshman. Now unfortunately I have very little time to chat, so I will wish you all a good day, ask you to take care and be safe.

Sayonara from my darkening and rather cool corner of Tokyo. Mata ashita ne.
——————————————————————————————————-

A few stories and opinions from around the globe.
================================

Cooling pipe breach now laid to temblor
Reactor design rethink looms after Tepco damage report

http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/nn20110526a1.html

—-

Kan says 20% of Japan’s energy to be from natural resources in 2020s

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/news/20110526p2g00m0dm006000c.html

—-

One tough job: selling Fukushima
Travel industry on the ropes, faces long hard path to recovery

http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/nn20110526f1.html

—-

Many anxious Fukushima residents undergo radiation screening tests

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/news/20110525p2a00m0na015000c.html

—-

Some power-cut goals eased / Hospitals, railways not subject to summer energy-saving targets

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110525006392.htm

—-

Community ties link disaster-hit neighbors

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110525004754.htm

—-

INTERNATIONAL NEWS
===============

Breaking news stories: Arrest of war criminal Ratko Mladic. Possible civil war in Yemen.
————

Ratko Mladic arrested: Bosnia war crimes suspect held

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-13561407

—-

Civil war looms as dozens killed in Yemen capital

http://www.reuters.com/article/2011/05/26/us-yemen-idUSTRE73L1PP20110526?feedType=nl&feedName=usmorningdigest

—-

A sharp kick in the pants might speed up this power crazy “malingerer’s” fall from his throne, he certainly won’t go quietly, or before trying to kill more of his opposition before he bites the dust.
————

Libya: regime negotiates Col Muammar Gaddafi’s position for first time

Col Muammar Gaddafi might eventually step down as Libya’s leader, a senior regime official said on Wednesday night as military and diplomatic pressure on Tripoli intensified.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/africaandindianocean/libya/8537123/Libya-regime-negotiates-Col-Muammar-Gaddafis-position-for-first-time.html

—-

Libya Apache deployment signals Britain’s escalating role in conflict

Attack helicopters’ use against Gaddafi to be formally announced amid warnings by forces minister of possible long haul for UK

http://www.guardian.co.uk/uk/2011/may/25/libya-apache-deployment-britain-role?CMP=EMCGT_260511

—-

I can’t understand any country which might be willing to give this monster refuge.
————

South African president, Jacob Zuma, to visit Tripoli for talks with Gaddafi

Johannesburg radio claims the aim is to discuss an exit strategy for the Libyan leader

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/may/25/gaddafi-talks-jacob-zuma

—-

Al-Qaeda takes advantage of security vacuum in Yemen

Al-Qaeda is taking advantage of the worsening political turmoil in Yemen to smuggle weapons into the capital in preparation for an attack on Western targets.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/middleeast/yemen/8536276/Al-Qaeda-takes-advantage-of-security-vacuum-in-Yemen.html

—-

Yemen uprising: thousands march to denounce violence

Thousands of anti-government protesters fill the streets of Sana’a to demonstrate against violence as gun battles between forces loyal to President Saleh and opposition gunmen break out for a third day.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/middleeast/yemen/8536904/Yemen-uprising-thousands-march-to-denounce-violence.html

—-

US diplomats told to leave Yemen

US orders all non-essential diplomats to leave and urges all Americans to depart country as security conditions deteriorate

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/may/26/us-orders-diplomats-leave-yemen

—-

Egypt to open Rafah crossing permanently

Egypt will open its only crossing with the Gaza Strip this weekend, the Cairo military government announced on Wednesday, significantly easing a four-year blockade on the Hamas-ruled territory but setting up a potential conflict with Israel.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/africaandindianocean/egypt/8536633/Egypt-to-open-Rafah-crossing-permanently.html

—-

Tough words.
————

Afghanistan war tactics are profoundly wrong, says former ambassador

Sir Sherard Cowper-Coles says General Petraeus has increased levels of violence and should be ashamed of himself

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/may/25/afghanistan-tactics-profoundly-wrong-ambassador

—-

How these murderers get to boast about this in a court of law, is beyond me.
————

Mumbai attacks were ‘brilliantly’ executed, says accused

A Chicago businessman accused in the deadly 2008 Mumbai attacks told the U.S. government’s star witness – an admitted American terrorist – that the rampage that killed more than 160 people was orchestrated “brilliantly,” according to testimony on Wednesday.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/asia/india/8537126/Mumbai-attacks-were-brilliantly-executed-says-accused.html

—-

Obama throws the weight of the west behind freedom in the Middle East

The president redefines the role of the US and its allies with a stirring speech to both houses of parliament in Westminster Hall

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/may/25/obama-west-freedom-middle-east

—-

G8 summit: aid package for Arab spring tops agenda

Two-day summit will also examine impact of the Japanese nuclear meltdown, climate change and the world economy

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/may/26/g8-aid-package-arab-spring

—-

Anyone who has followed my updates will know how strongly I feel about the failing care for the sick, poor and the elderly. Reading these findings just make me see red.
————

NHS failing in basic care of some elderly patients, warns watchdog

Care Quality Commission says some NHS trusts do not provide dignity and nutrition for some senior citizen patients

http://www.guardian.co.uk/society/2011/may/26/nhs-failing-in-care-of-elderly-patients

—-

Weird stuff coming from Italy’s numero uno Casanova guy.
————

Libya: Silvio Berlusconi casts doubt on death of Col Gaddafi’s son

Silvio Berlusconi has cast doubt on Libyan reports that Col Muammar Gaddafi’s son and three grandchildren were killed in an April 30 Nato air strike, saying on Wednesday that coalition forces believe the claim to be “propaganda.”

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/africaandindianocean/libya/8537128/Libya-Silvio-Berlusconi-casts-doubt-on-death-of-Col-Gaddafis-son.html

—-

Dominique Strauss-Kahn moves to New York townhouse under house arrest

Former IMF head rents $200,000 a month house in Tribeca where he will remains under bail conditions

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/may/26/dominique-strauss-kahn-moves-house-arrest

—-

All I can say is, thank God that he dropped out of the race when he did.
————

John Edwards ‘to be prosecuted for using campaign funds for hush money’

John Edwards, the former US presidential candidate, is expected to be prosecuted on suspicion of using campaign funds to pay his mistress hush money to keep quiet of their affair and love-child, during his bid for the White House.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/us-politics/8536428/John-Edwards-to-be-prosecuted-for-using-campaign-funds-for-hush-money.html

—-

Chinese city rocked by three blasts

Officials blame disgruntled farmer for explosions near government buildings that injured five in Fuzhou

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/may/26/chinese-city-rocked-three-blasts

—-

TRIVIA QUIZ

Yesterday’s answer was, “Little Women” by Louisa May Alcott. Seems that only jkk’s nephew got it right. 🙂

Today’s question.

Which were the only three movie Westerns to win Best Picture Oscars?

—-

Foreign national prisoners: ‘You’re locked up and the key is thrown away’ – video

Hundreds of foreign national prisoners like Mohamoud are being detained indefinitely when they can’t be deported. But a supreme court ruling has given hope to long-term detainees

http://www.guardian.co.uk/uk/video/2011/may/25/foreign-national-prisoners-video

—-

17 lost pyramids found by satellite

Seventeen lost pyramids and more than 1,000 tombs have been found in a new satellite survey of Egypt.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/africaandindianocean/egypt/8535571/17-lost-pyramids-found-by-satellite.html

—-

The documentary’s last stand

They win awards and critical acclaim – but are in-depth documentaries under threat? Mark Lawson talks to film-makers about risk-taking, total immersion and the cult of celebrity

http://www.guardian.co.uk/film/2011/may/25/documentary-dineen-macdonald

—-

Huguette Clark: New York’s billionaire recluse dies, aged 104

Manhattan heiress to copper fortune ‘made Howard Hughes seem outgoing’

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/may/25/huguette-clark-manhattan-recluse-dies

—-

I make them all through the summer months. They taste good cold too.
————

How to cook perfect quiche lorraine

Is this classic of the picnic basket due a revival, or are you happy to leave quiche to the wasps?

http://www.guardian.co.uk/lifeandstyle/wordofmouth/2011/may/26/how-to-cook-perfect-quiche-lorraine

—-

24 hours in pictures

A selection of the best images from around the world

http://www.guardian.co.uk/news/gallery/2011/may/25/1

Good morning everyone.

Ok, I fell asleep, so sue me. It was one of those days. 🙂

I hope that for many of you it is getting warmer as we reach the end of May. It was a pleasant enough day here, I could have done without the morning earthquake, but we can’t really do much about it, there is no on or off switch. The outside tribe were in their element rolling about in the dirt. Looks like I’ve got some emergency washing to do in the morning, but it was great to see them all so relaxed again. Fingers crossed.

Have a good day wherever you might be. Take care and be safe. Sayonara from my darkening corner of Tokyo. Mata ashita ne.
—————————————————————————————————————

A few stories and opinions from around the globe.
===============================

Tepco admits two more meltdowns
Temperature readings indicate melted cores are being cooled

http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/nn20110525a1.html

—-

‘Everything was by the book’ / TEPCO: Manual shutdown of reactor cooling system followed rules

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110524005786.htm

—-

Independent panel created to probe cause of crisis

http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/nn20110525a4.html

—-

Japan unlikely to build new nuclear plants after crisis, Kan tells FT

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/news/20110525p2g00m0dm009000c.html

—-

Sendai to resume international flights in June

http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/nn20110525a5.html

—-

Mentally disabled feel job pinch due to quake

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110524004419.htm

—-

Sea Shepherd members return to Iwate town after quake, angering locals

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/news/20110525p2g00m0dm008000c.html

—-

Japan: elderly engineers want ‘final mission’ to Fukushima

A group of elderly Japanese engineers are prepared to come out of retirement to fix the Fukushima nuclear power plant for their final mission.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/8534808/Japan-elderly-engineers-want-final-mission-to-Fukushima.html

—-

INTERNATIONAL NEWS
===============

What, that’s not what the people want or expect, come on.
————

Libya: Allies soften demands for Gaddafi to go

Britain and France have softened demands that Col Muammar Gaddafi gives up power before ceasefire talks can take place to suggest negotiations which could start while he remains as a figurehead in Libya. Please ignore the print error, I fixed it, I hope they fix it too)

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/africaandindianocean/libya/8534684/Libya-Allies-soften-demands-for-Gaddafi-to-go.html

—-

Of course not! 🙄
————

Libya: Col Gaddafi’s oil minister ‘did not flee’

Top Libyan oil official Shokri Ghanem has not defected, contrary to widespread reports, and is secretly working for Col Muammar Gaddafi to maintain ties with big oil companies, sources at western firms said.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/africaandindianocean/libya/8534654/Libya-Col-Gaddafis-oil-minister-did-not-flee.html

—-

Syrian site ‘very likely’ to have been nuclear, IAEA claim

A Syrian site bombed by Israel in 2007 was “very likely” to have been a nuclear reactor which should have been declared, the U.N. atomic agency said in a report, an assertion which may lead to Damascus being referred to the U.N. Security Council.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/middleeast/syria/8534291/Syrian-site-very-likely-to-have-been-nuclear-IAEA-claim.html

—-

Syrian rights group says death toll exceeds 1,000

The death toll from Syria’s crackdown on a nine-week uprising has exceeded 1,000, a prominent human rights group said on Tuesday, as the country’s opposition called for fresh protests and clearer goals.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/middleeast/syria/8533694/Syrian-rights-group-says-death-toll-exceeds-1000.html

—-

Yemen officials: 38 killed in Sanaa fighting

Fighters from Yemen’s powerful tribes fired on government buildings on Tuesday, prompting soldiers to respond with intense shelling in street battles that left at least 38 dead as the uprising against President Ali Abdullah Saleh threatened to become a militia-led revolt.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/middleeast/yemen/8534670/Yemen-officials-38-killed-in-Sanaa-fighting.html

—-

Suicide bomber attacks Pakistani police

Five police officers killed and at least 30 wounded in latest violence to hit Pakistan since killing of Osama bin Laden

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/may/25/suicide-bomber-attacks-pakistani-police

—-

How many times have we heard the word “compromise” only to find that the Palestinians get very little in return?

I’ll believe it when I see it. There have been far too many broken promises by Israel to give them the benefit of our doubt.

Benjamin Netanyahu makes a great “drama queen”.
————

Israel prepared to make ‘painful compromises’ for peace

Benjamin Netanyahu, the Israeli prime minister, said on Tuesday that Israelis were prepared to make “painful compromises” in a peace deal that would leave some or outlying Jewish settlements beyond the state’s agreed borders.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/middleeast/israel/8534297/Israel-prepared-to-make-painful-compromises-for-peace.html

—-

Benjamin Netanyahu speech to Congress unlikely to do much for peace process

Benjamin Netanyahu’s aides had promised it would be one of the most important speeches he would ever deliver, predicting that he would surprise and impress the world in equal measure.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/middleeast/israel/8534257/Benjamin-Netanyahu-speech-to-Congress-unlikely-to-do-much-for-peace-process.html

—-

Wicked witchcraft?
————

Iran refinery explosion as Mahmoud Ahmadinejad speaks

An explosion blamed on a gas leaked rocked Iran’s largest refinery on Tuesday around the time of a visit to the plant by President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, with reports saying at least two people were killed.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/middleeast/iran/8533057/Iran-refinery-explosion-as-Mahmoud-Ahmadinejad-speaks.html

—-

I’m sure that someone has some equally sleazy info on Mr. Nic too..
————

Nicolas Sarkozy’s cache of sleaze on rivals, including Dominique Strauss-Kahn

President Nicolas Sarkozy’s regime keeps a cache of sleaze information on his rivals, including police details of an alleged incident in which Dominique Strauss-Kahn was caught with a prostitute, it has been claimed.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/dominique-strauss-kahn/8533756/Nicolas-Sarkozys-cache-of-sleaze-on-rivals-including-Dominique-Strauss-Kahn.html

—-

Well that doesn’t leave much left to the imagination, does it?
————

Dominique Strauss-Kahn DNA ‘found on maid’s clothes’

DNA sample from former IMF chief matches undisclosed material on shirt of New York hotel maid, according to reports

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/may/24/dominique-strauss-kahn-dna-claim

—-

Obama and Cameron back multibillion-dollar plans to help Egypt and Tunisia

The two leaders want to stabilise the Middle East countries after their revolutions with financial and political support

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/may/24/obama-cameron-egypt-tunisia

—-

Michelle Obama’s playful style can still upstage her rivals

First lady combined blue silk dress with pink bolero, which set herself apart and showcased her colourful personality

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/may/24/michelle-obama-style-upstage-rivals

—-

Tornadoes hit Oklahoma and Kansas as deadly storms move east

Hundreds missing in Joplin, Missouri, as new round of twisters travel south-east and force Dallas airport evacuation

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/may/25/tornadoes-oklahoma-kansas-joplin

—-

Looks like the pro-lifers have spread their conservative webbed feet over the oceans far and wide.
————

Anti-abortion group drafted in as sexual health adviser to government

Coalition appoints pro-abstinence charity Life to key sexual health forum, while omitting British Pregnancy Advisory Service

http://www.guardian.co.uk/society/2011/may/24/abortion-sexual-health-coalition

—-

Amazon activist and wife shot dead in Brazil

An Amazon rainforest activist and his wife have been shot dead in northern Brazil as the country’s Congress debated a divisive land bill that threatens to increase deforestation.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/southamerica/brazil/8534802/Amazon-activist-and-wife-shot-dead-in-Brazil.html

—-

Supporters of Ivory Coast president Alassane Ouattara ‘killing enemies’

Atrocities being committed against real or perceived supporters of former leader Laurent Gbagbo, says Amnesty International

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/may/25/alassane-outtara-supporters-committing-atrocities

—-

I do wish that China would just tell him to get lost.
————

Kim Jong-il puts son and sun on agenda during China mission

North Korean leader seeks support for anointed successor and visits solar energy plant as guest of Beijing officials

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/may/24/kim-jong-il-son-china

—-

TRIVIA QUIZ

Yesterday’s answer.

Rush Hour. The phrase is in the Vatican’s “Lexicon Latinitatis”.

Today’s question.

What 19th -century American literary classic was originally going to be called “The Pathetic Family”?

—-

Obama shows patience in the face of pomp and ping-pong

The US president survived needy Europeans, unseasonably high winds and a high-risk table-tennis match

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/may/24/obama-patience-pomp-ping-pong

—-

Barack Obama’s UK visit – video

The US president and wife Michelle’s first day in the UK included meeting the Queen and the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge at Buckingham Palace

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/video/2011/may/24/barack-obama-uk-state-visit-video

—-

A woman’s guide to survival in a war zone

The Al Jazeera presenter Rosie Garthwaite draws on her experiences as well as those those of other battle-hardened foreign correspondents for her new book

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/books/8533137/A-womans-guide-to-survival-in-a-war-zone.html

—-

Oldham’s effort to end segregation in schools now looks hopelessly ambitious

By the time Asian and white children arrive at secondary schools, their perceptions of each other are crystallised

http://www.guardian.co.uk/education/2011/may/25/oldham-segregation-schools-ambitious

—-

Terror laws: ‘Special branch asked me to keep an eye on the Muslim community’ – video

Asians are 42 times more likely than white people to be held under UK anti-terror laws, official figures show. Asif Ahmed, 28, describes how he was detained and asked to spy after landing at Edinburgh airport

http://www.guardian.co.uk/uk/video/2011/may/24/terror-laws-muslim-video

—-

For all you ardent doggie lovers out there, this is for you.
————

Enter the Dog Photographer of the Year competition 2011

http://www.guardian.co.uk/lifeandstyle/gallery/2011/may/24/enter-dog-photographer-competition-2011

—-

24 hours in pictures

A selection of the best images from around the world

http://www.guardian.co.uk/news/gallery/2011/may/24/1

Good morning everyone.

When I left early this morning it was pouring with rain. After coming back around lunchtime it finally stopped. Our weekend was around 29C, from yesterday morning I’ve had to put the heater back on, can’t win.

The tribe have all been spotted and accounted for to the last tail, even the 2 who come just to eat, but sometimes crash in a spare and empty house. No news as yet from our two friendly policemen, or I might have missed them this morning.

I wish you all a good day. Take care and be safe. Sayonara from my corner of Tokyo where the sun is sinking fast. Mata ashita ne.
———————————————————————————————————–

A few stories and opinions from around the globe.
===============================

New storage sites needed at Fukushima No. 1

Facility for tainted water almost full

http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/nn20110524a1.html

—-

Kan denies he pulled plug on seawater

http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/nn20110524a2.html

—-

Preparation saved one island’s residents

All residents escaped half hour before tsunami hit

http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/nn20110524f2.html

—-

U.N. panel sees no health effects from Fukushima radiation so far

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/news/20110524p2g00m0in006000c.html

—-

Hiroshima resets ‘peace clock’ after U.S. plutonium tests

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/news/20110524p2g00m0dm071000c.html

—-

School communities shattered / Evacuation orders affect thousands of students, dozens of schools

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110523004632.htm

—-

18 no-entry zone holdouts stay put

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110523005018.htm

—-

Lone pine may be seed of forest’s rebirth

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110523003977.htm

—-

INTERNATIONAL NEWS
==============

Libya: Nato targets Tripoli with heaviest strikes yet

Nato forces have carried out an intense bombardment of central Tripoli, hitting a reserves’ base and killing three people, according to Libyan officials.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/africaandindianocean/libya/8532193/Libya-Nato-targets-Tripoli-with-heaviest-strikes-yet.html

—-

Apache helicopters to be sent into Libya by Britain

Use of helicopters, which can attack small targets, represents significant escalation of conflict

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/may/23/apache-helicopters-libya-britain

—-

Syria opposition battles rising frustration and internal divisions

Disorganisation and splits within activists’ ranks said to deter others from joining movement

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/may/23/syria-opposition-battles-frustration-division

—-

What on earth do they have against women???
————

Restrictions on women in Saudi Arabia

A woman has been arrested in Saudi Arabia for driving a car, an activity that is restricted to men only.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/middleeast/saudiarabia/8529945/Restrictions-on-women-in-Saudi-Arabia.html

—-

David Headley tells court of ISI links to Lashkar-e-Taiba

Pakistan’s ISI intelligence service coordinated with the terrorist group that carried out the 2008 Mumbai attacks in which more than 160 people were killed, according to an American who pleaded guilty to involvement in the plot.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/asia/india/8532078/David-Headley-tells-court-of-ISI-links-to-Lashkar-e-Taiba.html

—-

Pakistani commandos retake Karachi naval base

Taliban militants lose control of base 18 hours after deadly attack seen by many as a humiliating blow to Pakistan’s military

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/may/23/pakistan-commandos-retake-karachi-base

—-

Shocking to say the least. If they continue at this rate, who will be getting pregnant and giving birth, the men?
————

Millions of female foetuses aborted in India

Sex selection of foetuses in India has led to 7.1 million fewer girls than boys up to age six, a gender gap that has widened by more than a million in a decade, according to a study published in The Lancet.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/asia/india/8532190/Millions-of-female-foetuses-aborted-in-India.html

—-

Palestinian prime minister suffers heart attack

Palestinian Prime Minister Salam Fayyad suffered a heart attack while visiting the U.S. and is recovering at a Texas hospital, a spokesman said on Monday.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/middleeast/palestinianauthority/8532167/Palestinian-prime-minister-suffers-heart-attack.html

—-

Osama bin Laden dead: Mullah Omar ‘on the run’

The fugitive leader of the Afghan Taliban movement has left his long-term hideout inside Pakistan and gone on the run according to the Afghan intelligence service.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/al-qaeda/8531135/Osama-bin-Laden-dead-Mullah-Omar-on-the-run.html

—-

Why?

What is truly indefensible is people like you who have no intention of making peace.
————

Israel’s 1967 borders indefensible, Netanyahu tells Aipac

Israeli PM’s speech to influential US pro-Israel lobby group restates his opposition to Barack Obama over border issues

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/may/24/israel-borders-indefensible-netanyahu-aipac

—-

Shocking outcome.
————

Missouri town ravaged by worst tornado in 50 years

Joplin’s former mayor describes disaster scene as a ‘war zone’ which has destroyed entire neighbourhoods

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/may/23/missouri-town-joplin-ravaged-tornado

—-

Obama to meet the Queen at Buckingham Palace

US president to inspect a guard of honour before a private lunch with the Queen

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/may/24/obama-meet-queen-buckingham-palace

—-

Barack Obama visit: Michelle Obama reunites with Islington kids

Michelle Obama will this week reunite with the inner London girls school where she made a poignant visit two years ago, as well as attend a function with Samantha Cameron honouring the British dead in Afghanistan and their families.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/michelle-obama/8527558/Barack-Obama-visit-Michelle-Obama-reunites-with-Islington-kids.html

—-

Barack Obama visit: the agenda for talks with David Cameron

With Libya, Afghanistan, Israel-Palestine, the Arab Spring and Iran’s nuclear ambitions on the agenda, these are dramatic days for the special relationship between Britain and the US. Alex Spillius previews the talks between David Cameron and Barack Obama and highlights the probable differences between their public and private statements.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/barackobama/8527559/Barack-Obama-visit-the-agenda-for-talks-with-David-Cameron.html

—-

Déjà vu
————

Volcanic ash cloud: thousands face flight delays and cancellations

Dense plume from Iceland’s Grímsvötn volcano drifts towards UK, prompting BA to cancel flights between London and Scotland

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/may/24/volcanic-ash-cloud-flight-delays-heathrow

—-

Stand by for Big Society 4.0

David Cameron’s ‘big society’ strategy: if it it ain’t working – relaunch it

http://www.guardian.co.uk/politics/2011/may/23/stand-by-big-society

—-

TRIVIA QUIZ

Yesterday’s answer and a shout out to kes, was France. There is a hexagon design on its one-and two-euro coin in recognition of this.

Today’s question.

In updating ancient Latin, what modern definition did the Vatican give to the term “tempus maximae frequentiae”?

—-

Secretary Clinton, please call time on the Keystone Kochs

The fate of a hugely destructive tar sands oil pipeline, from which the Koch brothers will profit, hangs on Hillary Clinton’s decision

http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/cifamerica/2011/may/23/oil-sands-oilandgascompanies

—-

Poo poo Harold! Now find new homes for the people who sold their’s in preparation, and start giving back the money you stole from your followers.
————

Harold Camping admits he got the Rapture date wrong

California preacher Harold Camping has admitted that he got the date of the Rapture wrong when he predicted it would take place last Saturday and revised the date to October 21.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/religion/8532192/Harold-Camping-admits-he-got-the-Rapture-date-wrong.html

—-

Chelsea flower show’s Art of Yorkshire garden: ‘All the colours came from David Hockney’ – video

In the first of three films about the 2011 Chelsea flower show’s Art of Yorkshire garden, head designer Kate Dundas talks to Martin Wainwright

http://www.guardian.co.uk/lifeandstyle/video/2011/may/23/chelsea-flower-show-art-yorkshire-garden-video

—-

Bob Dylan at 70: fans celebrate but interview tapes reveal a dark episode

Bobcats, Bobsessives and Bobscholars will pore over 1966 Robert Shelton tapes revealing heroin use and suicidal thoughts

http://www.guardian.co.uk/music/2011/may/24/bob-dylan-70th-birthday

—-

24 hours in pictures

A selection of the best images from around the world

http://www.guardian.co.uk/news/gallery/2011/may/23/24-hours-in-pictures

Good morning everyone.

First of all, thank you all for your concern about tribe #2. I found the last straggler fast asleep in his house just now, my guys are all home and safe. No word from the nice policeman yet, but I’m sure that they are very busy, so I’ll just wait.

The thing which upsets me a lot about this attack is that I’m viewing everyone I see in front of my house with suspicion. Open my front door with every noise that isn’t familiar, and wondering if this person, if not caught, might escalate whatever they were doing in the first place. Hubby promised me that as soon as he comes back from his work trip to southern Japan tomorrow, he will look into a security inter-phone where I can see who is at the door and a little beyond without ever having to pick up the receiver. Sounds like a plan to me, this crackpot stole my peace of mind yesterday afternoon. I want it back, it belongs to me.

If you get the chance please read the article near the bottom of this update titled “Dear Michelle Obama” it’s worth the read, and definitely worth tweeting. I’ve left instructions for bito below. 😉

Well it’s still raining and I must feed the tribe before it starts to get any heavier. Have a great Mumbly Monday. Take care of yourselves and those you love, and be safe. Sayonara from a dark and rainy Tokyo. Mata ashita ne.
———————————————————————————————————

A few stories and opinions from around the globe.
===============================

China to ease food import bans

Kan, Wen, Lee bolster disaster plans

http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/nn20110523a1.html

—-

Tamura residents challenge hot zone for short trip home

Residents brave radiation fears for two golden hours in ghost town

http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/nn20110523a2.html

—-

Living in damaged houses / Disaster victims endure unsafe structures, lack of utilities

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110522002543.htm

—-

Diverse support given to earthquake victims

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110522002907.htm

—-

Safety exec refutes govt, TEPCO story

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110522002796.htm

—-

INTERNATIONAL NEWS
==============

Gunmen storm Karachi military base

Gunmen attacked Pakistan’s naval aviation base on Sunday, starting fires, setting off explosions and fighting pitched gun battles inside one of the country’s most heavily guarded military installations.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/asia/pakistan/8529765/Gunmen-storm-Karachi-military-base.html

—-

Tunisia considers postponing elections

Tunisia, the country where the so-called Arab Spring of democratic rebellions against autocratic rulers began in January, said it would postpone its first free elections from July to October.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/africaandindianocean/tunisia/8529720/Tunisia-considers-postponing-elections.html

—-

Tripoli despatch: Will Gaddafi go with a whimper or a bang?

There is propaganda on either side, but neither Colonel Gaddafi nor his Nato foes seem to have many new ideas, reports Andrew Gilligan in Tripoli.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/africaandindianocean/libya/8527894/Tripoli-despatch-Will-Gaddafi-go-with-a-whimper-or-a-bang.html

—-

Syrian forces ‘open fire’ on mass funeral

Amateur video from Homs claims to show a mass funeral for anti-government protesters coming under fire from Syrian security forces.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/middleeast/syria/8528924/Syrian-forces-open-fire-on-mass-funeral.html

—-

British Ambassador evacuated by helicopter as Yemen mob surrounds diplomatic meeting

Britain’s ambassador to Yemen had to be airlifted to safety after President Ali Abdullah Saleh’s supporters disrupted a meeting to encourage his resignation.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/middleeast/yemen/8529386/British-Ambassador-evacuated-by-helicopter-as-Yemen-mob-surrounds-diplomatic-meeting.html

—-

Palestinians plan fresh protests to mark war anniversary

Committee behind last weekend’s protests says they were ‘just the beginning’, and calls for further marches on 5 June

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/may/22/palestinian-protests-war-anniversary

—-

Sudan’s northern forces seize control of contested north-south border town

The northern Sudanese army on Sunday took control of the flashpoint border town Abyei after three days of violent clashes between northern and southern forces in the surrounding area.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/africaandindianocean/sudan/8529180/Sudans-northern-forces-seize-control-of-contested-north-south-border-town.html

—-

You would think that after March 11th, the world would have understood the danger of nuclear power plants versus earthquakes, you would think wouldn’t you?

Oh wait, maybe they will use witchcraft and genies in bottles to stop it from happening, of course.
————

Iran ‘ignores’ earthquake threat to nuclear plant

The Iranian government has rejected warnings of the potentially ‘disastrous’ threat earthquakes pose to the country’s Russian-built nuclear power station in the Gulf.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/middleeast/iran/8529731/Iran-ignores-earthquake-threat-to-nuclear-plant.html

—-

David Milliband blames Tony Blair for Iraq chaos as British troops complete withdrawal

David Miliband, the former Labour foreign secretary, has blamed his former ally Tony Blair for the chaos which engulfed Iraq following the toppling of Saddam Hussein.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/middleeast/iraq/8529724/David-Milliband-blames-Tony-Blair-for-Iraq-chaos-as-British-troops-complete-withdrawal.html

—-

Barack Obama agrees to form joint national security body with UK

US president will use visit to London to announce new co-operation to tackle long-term challenges

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/may/23/barack-obama-security-board-with-uk

—-

I was so sorry to hear about this, my sincere condolences and prayers for all affected by this tragedy.
————

Dozens feared dead in Joplin, Missouri tornado

Dozens of people were feared dead after a massive tornado cut a deadly swath through the town of Joplin, Missouri.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/northamerica/usa/8530038/Dozens-feared-dead-in-Joplin-Missouri-tornado.html

—-

Phone hacking: journalist’s lawsuit against NoW revives ‘spying’ claims

Dennis Rice launches proceedings alleging that his voicemail messages were intercepted while working at the Mail on Sunday

http://www.guardian.co.uk/media/2011/may/22/phone-hacking-journalist-lawsuit

—-

Again?
————

Icelandic volcano ash could enter UK airspace, forecasters warn

Britain may be at risk as early as Tuesday, although the impact is not expected to be as great as it was in April 2010

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/may/22/icelandic-volcano-ash-uk-airspace

—-

This seem familiar?
————

China detains 300 Tibetan monks after self-immolation incident

Around 300 Tibetan monks from a Sichuan monastery have been detained by security staff after a monk set himself on fire

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/may/23/tibetan-monks-detained-china-sichuan

—-

Ai Weiwei’s four missing friends held by Chinese authorities, say supporters

Journalist Wen Tao and three other close associates of Ai Weiwei “vanished entirely” in wake of artist’s disappearance

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/may/22/ai-weiwei-friends-missing

—-

CHARLIE BROOKER

Hollywood shuns intelligent entertainment. The games industry doesn’t. Guess who’s winning?

LA Noire and Portal 2 are video games that challenge the mind instead of the thumbs

http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/2011/may/23/gaming-makes-hollywood-look-embarrassing

—-

TRIVIA QUIZ

Yesterday’s answer.

Antarctica and Australia. Well done kes!

Today’s question.

Because of it’s shape, what European country is known as the hexagon?

—-

Great article about your First Lady, it should be tweeted. Oh bito where are you, could you be a sweetie and do this little Tweetie?

Thanks ever so much!
————

Dear Michelle Obama

As the Obamas make their first official state visit to the UK, we have a warm welcome for the star of the show – the first lady

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/may/22/michelle-obama-state-visit-uk

—-

Is there such a thing as a nice bridesmaid dress?

The best-case scenario is that the bride is kind enough to let you pick your own outfit

http://www.guardian.co.uk/lifeandstyle/2011/may/22/ask-hadley-bridesmaid-dress

—-

Can Lady with an Ermine really take down Mona Lisa in the battle of the Leonardo blockbusters?

http://www.guardian.co.uk/artanddesign/2011/may/22/sam-leith-leonardo-lady-ermine

—-

Dung loaming: how llamas aided the Inca empire

Inca culture spread from Andes after manure from llama herds provided fertiliser for corn crops at high altitude

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/may/22/incas-llama-manure-crops

—-

24 hours in pictures

A selection of the best images from around the world

http://www.guardian.co.uk/news/gallery/2011/may/22/24-hours-in-pictures

Good morning everyone.

I’m sorry but I really had to rush through the news stories today, and have had to omit quite a few of them, forgive me. What started out to be a rather sticky but routine Sunday, has turned into a lunatic’s daydream.

At just before 3 this afternoon, when we were just about to sit down to lunch, our doorbell rang. It was our neighbour. She explained that someone had just emptied a fire extinguisher in our garage and along the street. I couldn’t believe my eyes, everything was covered in this fine pink, gritty dust. It took hubby and me almost an hour to wash everything off, the cat food dishes, their water, one of their houses were covered, so were our car tires, our plants on the front doorstep, and everything in between. Our neighbours called the police after someone had taken photos with their cell phone. Since then I haven’t seen a single member of our tribe, I’m getting worried about them and wonder if they were there at the time of this crazy attack. I’ve just put out fresh food and water, nothing yet.

The two nice policemen said that there might be a chance that the culprit is caught on the security camera of a building just down the street. Today is Sunday, so we will just have to be patient. All I know is that the most damage was caused in our garage, and it worries me greatly. I’ve had no trouble with anyone in the neighbourhood for many years. Looks like we will have to find another small gate on a stand to make sure that someone can’t just walk in there. The police have promised to patrol from tonight. I feel uneasy, and my good mood of the day has now gone

Have a good day and be safe. Sayonara from my somewhat sad and rainy corner of Tokyo. Mata ashita ne.

As of 5 pm, I have located two of my tribe, they were not injured or covered in this awful, pink gritty dust. 8 more to find.
——————————————————————————————————-

A few stories and opinions from around the globe.
===============================

Kan, Wen, Lee make symbolic gesture in Fukushima

East Asia’s top leaders meet near nuke plant

http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/nn20110522a1.html

—-

Sources: Kan halted cooling day after quake

Water to reactor 1 was stopped 55 minutes on advice of Nuclear Safety Commission

http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/nn20110522a2.html

—-

Shape of new Tohoku should emerge in five years: Iokibe

http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/nn20110519a4.html

—-

Signs of big quake emerged in February

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/news/20110521p2a00m0na020000c.html

—-

Calls for rescue of abandoned pets in Fukushima grow louder as time runs out

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/news/20110521p2a00m0na022000c.html

—-

Hiroshima monk to invite Fukushima students to A-bomb anniversary

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/news/20110521p2a00m0na023000c.html

—-

302 students change schools over radiation fears

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/news/20110521p2a00m0na017000c.html

—-

High tides flooding quake-sunk land

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110521002527.htm

—-

INTERNATIONAL NEWS
==============

Syria defies Barack Obama shooting 21 in fresh protest retaliation

Bashar al-Assad, the Syrian president, defied censure from Barack Obama on Friday as his forces shot dead at least 21 protesters in a fresh upswell of bloodshed across the country.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/middleeast/syria/8526887/Syria-defies-Barack-Obama-shooting-21-in-fresh-protest-retaliation.html

—-

Syria’s defiant women risk all to protest against President Bashar al-Assad

Women on the frontline of demonstrations against Syria’s brutal regime are now being targeted by security forces

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/may/21/syria-women-unrest-repression

—-

Knife mob attacks reporters in Libya

A bus containing foreign journalists was attacked by a knife-wielding mob in Libya on Saturday, in the first significant manifestation of public hostility to Westerners.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/africaandindianocean/libya/8527997/Knife-mob-attacks-reporters-in-Libya.html

—-

Insane. Netanyahu is a bad man, and an even worse politician. People should be booing him.
————

Pro-Israeli lobby urged ‘not to boo Barack Obama after Middle East peace address

President Barack Obama and Israel’s prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, are squaring up for another clash on Sunday as relations between the two countries plunge to their worst level since the founding of the Jewish state.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/us-politics/8527852/Pro-Israeli-lobby-urged-not-to-boo-Barack-Obama-after-Middle-East-peace-address.html

—-

Dominique Strauss-Kahn: new claims of sexual misconduct add to pressure on former IMF chief

Fresh allegations of sexual misconduct have emerged against Dominique Strauss-Kahn, the former head of the International Monetary Fund accused of sexually assaulting a New York chambermaid.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/dominique-strauss-kahn/8528493/Dominique-Strauss-Kahn-new-claims-of-sexual-misconduct-add-to-pressure-on-former-IMF-chief.html

—-

Nick Clegg: remove key clause from NHS reform bill

Deputy PM demands removal of proposals designed to encourage competition and private sector involvement

http://www.guardian.co.uk/society/2011/may/21/nick-clegg-nhs-reforms-bill

—-

David Mitchell
———-

Don’t blame Mary Portas if she can’t deliver the coalition’s punchline

The Queen of Shops deserves better than to be involved in another government PR stunt

http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/2011/may/22/david-mitchell-mary-portas-shopping-coalition

—-

TRIVIA QUIZ

Yesterday’s answer and kes got it right was, Eva Peron.

Today’s question.

What two continents have never been the site of a major military conflict?

—-

Nigel Slater’s herb recipes

Now is the time to raid your herb garden. Don’t be afraid to experiment, and always use a generous hand

http://www.guardian.co.uk/lifeandstyle/2011/may/22/nigel-slater-herbs-asparagus-chicken

—-

Apocalypse not now: The Rapture fails to materialise

Christian doomsday prophet Harold Camping had predicted the world would end at 6pm on Saturday

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/may/21/apocalypse-not-now-rapture-fails-materialise

—-

Sad story, broke my heart, but the picture was just so adorable.

Anyone known to have mistreated a pet anything, should never be allowed to keep one again.
————

Pet rabbits are cruelly neglected and mistreated in Britain, survey finds

Study suggests 75% of two million pet rabbits are badly cared for and commonly misunderstood by families who look after them

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/may/21/pet-rabbits-cruelly-neglected-mistreated

—-

24 hours in pictures

A selection of the best images from around the world

http://www.guardian.co.uk/news/gallery/2011/may/21/24-hours-in-pictures

Good morning everyone. Welcome to your weekend.

Hot! Hot! Too blinking hot! That’s about all I have any energy left to say today, except for wishing you a good weekend, hoping you have great weather, and asking you to stay safe.

Sayonara from my still hot corner of Tokyo. Please excuse me now as I head for my kitchen to put my head in our fridge. Mata ashita ne.
———————————————————————————————————–

A few stories and opinions from around the globe.
================================

Tepco suffers record ¥1.24 trillion group loss as president takes the fall

http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/nb20110521a1.html

—-

Death of nuclear plant worker highlights need for proper health management

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/perspectives/news/20110521p2a00m0na010000c.html

—-

Over 2,000 safes brought to Miyagi police since quake

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110520005330.htm

—-

Lopsided lighthouses, and worse

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110520005021.htm

—-

Facility for disaster victims’ pets struggles with limited supplies and manpower

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/features/news/20110520p2a00m0na017000c.html

—-

James Bond villain lair volcano erupts in Japan

Mount Shinmoe, which featured as the volcano lair of James Bond villain Blofeld in You Only Live Twice, has erupted in Japan, forcing the evacuation of local residents.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/asia/japan/8285559/James-Bond-villain-lair-volcano-erupts-in-Japan.html

—-

INTERNATIONAL NEWS
===============

Libya: London-based photographer killed by Gaddafi troops

A London-based photographer who has been missing in Libya for over a month was shot dead on the first day by government troops yet Col Muammar Gaddafi continued to tell his family he was alive.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/africaandindianocean/libya/8526568/Libya-London-based-photographer-killed-by-Gaddafi-troops.html

—-

RAF strikes Libyan warships at Al Khums port

Ministry of Defence releases cockpit video showing Tornado and Typhoon warplanes attacking two warships at Al Khums, Libya, and a facility in the dockyard being used to construct fast inflatable boats.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/africaandindianocean/libya/8526125/RAF-strikes-Libyan-warships-at-Al-Khums-port.html

—-

Liar, liar, pants on fire!
————

Libya accuses NATO of causing humanitarian crisis

http://edition.cnn.com/2011/WORLD/africa/05/21/libya.war/index.html

—-

Egyptian novelist hails revolution as a ‘great human achievement’

The country’s most celebrated writer, Alaa al-Aswany, was inspired by the Tahrir protesters, but fears a counter-revolution

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/may/20/egyptian-novelist-hails-revolution

—-

Egyptians expunge Mubarak’s legacy, one metro map at a time

Egypt’s former president created a regime whose psychological hold may take longer to throw off than the physical one

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/may/20/egyptians-expunge-mubarak-legacy

—-

Protests erupt in Syrian cities; at least 34 reported dead

http://edition.cnn.com/2011/WORLD/meast/05/20/syria.unrest/index.html

—-

Al-Qaida hoped to blow up oil tankers, Bin Laden documents reveal

Documents seized from Pakistan compound discuss ‘aspirational’ plot designed to provoke economic crisis in west

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/may/20/al-qaida-oil-tankers-bin-laden

—-

😆 😆 😆
————

Mahmoud Ahmadinejad says Europe ‘stealing Iran’s rain’

Mahmoud Ahmadinejad has accused Western countries of plotting to “cause drought” in Iran by using high tech equipment to drain the clouds of raindrops.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/middleeast/iran/8527455/Mahmoud-Ahmadinejad-says-Europe-stealing-Irans-rain.html

—-

Netanyahu and Obama long way apart over Middle East peace plans

US and Israeli leaders at odds over 1967 reference, leaving Obama to discuss issue with Cameron in London

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/may/20/netanyahu-obama-middle-east

—-

Former member of Mugabe secret police granted asylum in UK

A former member of Robert Mugabe’s feared secret police in Zimbabwe who admitted kidnapping dozens of his political rivals and carrying out acts of torture “too gruesome to recount” has been granted asylum in the UK under European human rights legislation.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/africaandindianocean/southafrica/8525753/Former-member-of-Mugabe-secret-police-granted-asylum-in-UK.html

—-