President Obama has called for "compromise" as the argument in the US Congress continues over how the country will address its national debt crisis.
With the debt ceiling in danger of being reached and a resulting default possible within days, Democrat and Republican senators have show little progress towards reaching an agreement.
World markets are watching developments anxiously, as bankruptcy for America would have severe implications for other nations.
http://thenewsportal.net/?p=1043898
Tuesday 26 July 2011
We’d much rather bankrupt the world than pay any tax, argue US Republicans
US Republicans continue to happily push the US towards bankruptcy as they laughed off the latest attempt from Senate Democrats to force them to pay some taxes.
The Democrats’ latest proposal involves raising taxes for the rich while helping the poor and the elderly – a suggestion which appears preposterous to their opponents.
Republican John Boehner explained, “Once again, we completely reject these unrealistic plans which need us to part with some of our millions.”
“They seem to expect us to give up a bit of our endless hordes of cash in an attempt to support those less well-off. Where do they think we are, the UK!?”
“If we can hold off an agreement for just a bit longer, we’ll virtually guarantee getting that non-American out of the White House. A world financial meltdown would be a small price to pay.”
Republican supporter Dwight Manning told us, “The President makes a compelling argument about asking multi-millionaires and oil companies to pay more tax before asking the elderly to pay more for medical treatment.”
“He’s just seems to have forgotten that most of us Republicans couldn’t give two shits about the well-being of elderly people.”
US debt crisis
President Obama presented a speech on the matter, using quite a lot of challenging vocabulary that 95% of watching Americans failed to understand.
“My fellow Americans, the Republicans have stopped trying to prove I’m not American for long enough to tell us where to shove our latest deficit-reduction plan.”
“They have put forward their own proposal in response, which makes absolutely no sense to anyone – especially to themselves.”
“Some good news is that if Congress carries on like this, in a couple of months there will be no calculator in the world powerful enough to work out the national debt figure.”
“Create the greatest democracy in the worldTM, and this is what you get.”
Monday 25 July 2011
Singer Amy Winehouse, 27, found dead
Police were called to a house in north London on Saturday night, and reports shortly after claimed it was due to the death of troubled singer Amy Winehouse. She was 27.
She became a global superstar in 2006 with the release of the album "Back to Black", and the song "Rehab" seems to hold a particular poignancy at this sad time.
Reaction and tributes have started, with many shocked at the tragic news which was greatly feared more than unexpected, following her long battle with drink and drug addiction.
http://thenewsportal.net/?p=1079736
She became a global superstar in 2006 with the release of the album "Back to Black", and the song "Rehab" seems to hold a particular poignancy at this sad time.
Reaction and tributes have started, with many shocked at the tragic news which was greatly feared more than unexpected, following her long battle with drink and drug addiction.
http://thenewsportal.net/?p=1079736
Saturday 23 July 2011
James Murdoch in trouble
Pressure is growing on News International chairman James Murdoch following accusations that he lied during the questioning from the media committee on Tuesday.
Murdoch denied knowledge of an e-mail which would have made him aware of the extent of the phone-hacking operations, but other former executives from the News of the World have disputed that.
Some are calling for his resignation after claims that he also paid off hacking victims to keep evidence confidential, which could be perjury.
http://thenewsportal.net/?p=1057382
Murdoch denied knowledge of an e-mail which would have made him aware of the extent of the phone-hacking operations, but other former executives from the News of the World have disputed that.
Some are calling for his resignation after claims that he also paid off hacking victims to keep evidence confidential, which could be perjury.
http://thenewsportal.net/?p=1057382
Death count rises in Norway
Following two, linked terror attacks in Norway on Friday, 84 have so far been confirmed dead on the island where a man started shooting at a political youth camp, after a bomb killed 7 in the capital, Oslo.
The main suspect is in custody, and it could be that the same man is responsible for both atrocities, possibly travelling the short distance from the bomb blast to the island where the youths were attacked as they discussed the earlier explosion.
Many are analysing the possibility of Al-Qaeda being involved, considering the complexity of the bomb and the planning, and there are also reports that the man could be a right-wing nationalist extremist, but most thoughts are with the victims and families after this most horrific tragedy.
http://thenewsportal.net/?p=1078817
The main suspect is in custody, and it could be that the same man is responsible for both atrocities, possibly travelling the short distance from the bomb blast to the island where the youths were attacked as they discussed the earlier explosion.
Many are analysing the possibility of Al-Qaeda being involved, considering the complexity of the bomb and the planning, and there are also reports that the man could be a right-wing nationalist extremist, but most thoughts are with the victims and families after this most horrific tragedy.
http://thenewsportal.net/?p=1078817
Friday 22 July 2011
James Murdoch criticised for poor quality lying
News International chairman James Murdoch is facing yet more criticism after it became apparent that his lying during the media committee questioning was not of the standard expected from senior staff at News Corp.
Murdoch’s insincere denial of knowing about an e-mail which told him exactly what was going in terms of phone-hacking has quickly been exposed as ‘bullshit’.
Former editor Colin Myler fumed, “Once again, Mr Murdoch is letting everyone down with his shockingly incompetence lying, especially when under pressure.”
“All he has to do is sit there and act dumb, like his dad, and no-one’s going to dare question him.”
“But no, he has to keep trying to prove to his old man that he’s got what it takes to take over at News Corp by coming up with ludicrous excuses which fail to meet the standards of talking bollocks that we consider necessary.”
“Andy Coulson could teach him a thing or two, that’s for sure.”
Murdoch lies ‘unconvincing’
BBC business editor Robert Peston has been a key figure as the revelations have continued, telling the public nothing understandable despite supposedly having good internal sources.
“Well, this could be an important development of who knew what and when,” Peston confirmed.
“Then again, it could be Myler lying in a far more believable manner than James Murdoch, and who would bet against that?”
“Myler and other former NoW executives have somehow kept themselves out of trouble for years, so can we really believe a word he says?”
“One thing’s for sure – you won’t be getting the answer from me.”
Friday 15 July 2011
Rebekah Brooks finally gets out
News International Chief Executive Rebekah Brooks has resigned amid growing pressure over phone-hacking and bribery allegations.
The former editor has been under special protection from boss Rupert Murdoch and seemed likely to hang on despite the circumstances.
However, the criticism has finally got to her, and with the FBI proposing to start an investigation into possible hackings of victims of the 9/11 atrocities, Brooks has left while she still can.
Most have reacted with relief at the "right" decision, although the heat is still on for News Corp boss Rupert Murdoch.
http://thenewsportal.net/?p=1057382
The former editor has been under special protection from boss Rupert Murdoch and seemed likely to hang on despite the circumstances.
However, the criticism has finally got to her, and with the FBI proposing to start an investigation into possible hackings of victims of the 9/11 atrocities, Brooks has left while she still can.
Most have reacted with relief at the "right" decision, although the heat is still on for News Corp boss Rupert Murdoch.
http://thenewsportal.net/?p=1057382
Wednesday 13 July 2011
Cameron under pressure over Coulson
David Cameron took a bit of a battering in Prime Minister's Questions over his links to Andy Coulson and Rupert Murdoch.
Until last week, Cameron was happy to defend his "friend" Coulson, a former editor at the "News of the World" who was appointed a Downing Street aide last year.
Now, following continuous revelations over the behaviour of journalists at the tabloid during the time Coulson was there, Cameron is under pressure to explain why the pair were close.
Normally a calm performer, the PM seems unsettled by the turn of events which is dragging him into the mire along with the News International staff.
http://thenewsportal.net/?p=1048517
Until last week, Cameron was happy to defend his "friend" Coulson, a former editor at the "News of the World" who was appointed a Downing Street aide last year.
Now, following continuous revelations over the behaviour of journalists at the tabloid during the time Coulson was there, Cameron is under pressure to explain why the pair were close.
Normally a calm performer, the PM seems unsettled by the turn of events which is dragging him into the mire along with the News International staff.
http://thenewsportal.net/?p=1048517
Tuesday 12 July 2011
Euromillions winning ticket in UK
The National Lottery has announced that the jackpot ticket of the Euromillions draw, worth £161 million, belongs to someone in the UK.
It is unknown whether it was bought by an individual or consortium. Other lesser (still substantial) prizes were also won by British ticket-holders.
It is the biggest-ever European lottery prize - the total was capped after consecutive rollovers.
It could be you.
http://thenewsportal.net/?p=1058149
It is unknown whether it was bought by an individual or consortium. Other lesser (still substantial) prizes were also won by British ticket-holders.
It is the biggest-ever European lottery prize - the total was capped after consecutive rollovers.
It could be you.
http://thenewsportal.net/?p=1058149
Home Affairs Committee investigates NoW allegations
The UK Home Affairs Committee grilled a number of individuals on Tuesday over allegations of phone-hacking and bribery against journalists working for the News Group newspapers.
The most recent victim to speak out was Gordon Brown, who has spoken of his disgust and upset upon learning that it seems his son's medical records were accessed.
Rupert Murdoch is in the UK in order to handle the management of the crisis, although he my be starting to wish he had stayed well away.
http://thenewsportal.net/?p=1055411
The most recent victim to speak out was Gordon Brown, who has spoken of his disgust and upset upon learning that it seems his son's medical records were accessed.
Rupert Murdoch is in the UK in order to handle the management of the crisis, although he my be starting to wish he had stayed well away.
http://thenewsportal.net/?p=1055411
Computer error let Rupert Murdoch enter UK, claim Border Agency
Computer error let Rupert Murdoch enter UK, claim Border Agency
The Home Office is urgently investigating how a billionaire media mogul was able to freely enter the UK, despite the government pretending to have doubts over his character.
David Cameron and other Conservatives have recently been forced into feigning a lack of complete obedience to Rupert Murdoch after public outrage over allegations against News International staff.
“We are currently looking into how this could have happened to a multi-million pound computer system as a matter of utmost importance,” a Border Agency spokesman announced.
“If I didn’t know better, I’d say there could have been some hacking involved.”
“It appears that warnings over certain individuals could not be communicated to Heathrow staff electronically.”
“As a result, a paper alert was circulated – which appears to have failed. It was probably the last edition of the News of the World.”
Murdoch slips through
David Cameron has recently been mysteriously absent from the media spotlight, leaving Culture Secretary Jeremy Hunt to manufacture the government’s highly transparent denials and excuses.
Hunt admitted, “Since public derision has grown over the last few days, I have no choice but to refer this matter to the Border Control Agency.”
“They are free to consider all the new facts in order to make their decision – as long as it’s the same as the last one.”
“The Coalition government pledges to remain united in pacifying the media with some non-committal quotes, whilst privately toeing Mr Murdoch’s line as religiously as ever.”
Monday 11 July 2011
110 found dead in Volga river tragedy
Rescue workers have found approximately 110 bodies inside the "Bulgaria", the tourist ship which sank in Russia's Volga river on Sunday. About 30 of the dead are said to be children.
200 people were on board when the ship went down. It was heading for Moscow but it sank 2 miles from shore. Although some were rescued, the number of fatalities from this tragic incident is truly shocking.
http://thenewsportal.net/?p=1053197
Source:
http://noticias.terra.com.br/mundo/noticias/0,,OI5234542-EI8142,00-Russia+mergulhadores+acham+corpos+no+barco+que+afundou+no+Volga.html
200 people were on board when the ship went down. It was heading for Moscow but it sank 2 miles from shore. Although some were rescued, the number of fatalities from this tragic incident is truly shocking.
http://thenewsportal.net/?p=1053197
Source:
http://noticias.terra.com.br/mundo/noticias/0,,OI5234542-EI8142,00-Russia+mergulhadores+acham+corpos+no+barco+que+afundou+no+Volga.html
Rupert Murdoch in UK to oversee government inquiries into phone-hacking and bribery
News Corporation Chief Executive Rupert Murdoch has arrived in the UK to personally ensure that any government inquiry into the News of the World hacking and bribery allegations goes exactly as he wants it to.
Having successfully managed to make most of the British media turn the last edition of the besieged tabloid into a glorious and sentimental farewell to the greatest publication ever, Murdoch has now revealed that he is expecting the inquiries into phone-hacking and bribery to end with Rebekah Brooks being installed as Queen.
“Mr Murdoch has very thoughtfully spared some time to visit the UK and make sure that David Cameron behaves himself,” a News Corp aide announced.
“He’s worried his boy Dave might get a bit excited with all the media attention and do something he might regret.”
“Mr Murdoch has come in person so that he can be absolutely certain that not a single member of staff will be charged with criminal offences, and also that the BskyB deal will go through as Mr Murdoch told Mr Cameron it would months ago.”
“He’s here to give a gentle reminder to Mr Cameron about who’s really in control here, and to ensure he won’t consider stepping out of line, even for a second.”
Murdoch in control
The timing of the start of the inquiries is not ideal for News Corp, as the Murdochs and their executives have had far too little time to recover from the celebrations of transforming a disastrous stream of bad publicity about NoTW into a record-breaking final edition, with an identical version of the paper to be launched under a different name within weeks.
“The government is thoughtlessly ruining a great moment for British journalism,” claimed former NoTW reader Richard Peters, soon to become a devoted Sun on Sunday reader.
“Rebekah Brooks was the last in a long line of glorious leaders who rode roughshod over the laws of the land to me what I want, why can’t people appreciate that?”
“Now the government is detracting from the build up to the ‘Sun on Sunday’ with their petty claims about phone-hacking and police bribery.”
“As if any of us record-breaking 5 million readers want to hear about that nonsense!”
Sunday 10 July 2011
Alonso spoils Vettel's party
Fernando Alonso in his Ferrari benefitted from a pit-stop howler by Sebastian Vettel's Red Bull team to take the chequered flag in the British Grand Prix.
The German was looking as comfortable as ever in the lead after jumping his team-mate Mark Webber at the start, but a problem with one of the wheels during the second pit-stop cost him the vital seconds which allowed Alonso to cruise to victory.
Despite not winning, Vettel still extends his championship lead over Webber, with Alonso far behind.
It was a miserable day for the Brits, with Paul di Resta also suffering in the pits, Jenson Button similarly had to retire, and Lewis Hamilton made progress from a low grid position but had to settle for fourth as he struggled with fuel in the final laps.
http://thenewsportal.net/?p=1052999
The German was looking as comfortable as ever in the lead after jumping his team-mate Mark Webber at the start, but a problem with one of the wheels during the second pit-stop cost him the vital seconds which allowed Alonso to cruise to victory.
Despite not winning, Vettel still extends his championship lead over Webber, with Alonso far behind.
It was a miserable day for the Brits, with Paul di Resta also suffering in the pits, Jenson Button similarly had to retire, and Lewis Hamilton made progress from a low grid position but had to settle for fourth as he struggled with fuel in the final laps.
http://thenewsportal.net/?p=1052999
111 missing after boat sinks in Russia
The Associated Press reported 111 missing as concern grows following the sinking of a tourist boat in Russia's Volga river. 2 people are confirmed dead so far.
The incident occurred on Sunday and 170 were on board the ship when it went down.
Its destination was Moscow but it sank 2 miles from shore. Although some have been rescued, the number of those still unaccounted for remains unclear.
http://thenewsportal.net/?p=1053197
The incident occurred on Sunday and 170 were on board the ship when it went down.
Its destination was Moscow but it sank 2 miles from shore. Although some have been rescued, the number of those still unaccounted for remains unclear.
http://thenewsportal.net/?p=1053197
Saturday 9 July 2011
Strong earthquake worries Japan east coast
An earthquake has struck off the east coast of Japan, recorded at above magnitude 7, which has resulted in a tsunami alert and the evacuation of the Fukushima nuclear plant.
Residents of Kamaishi and Iwate have also been ordered to evacuate, although no damage has been reported and readings of nuclear stations in the area show no irregularities.
The area is still in shock from the catastrophic earthquake and tsunami which caused devastation in March. Early reports indicate that the latest one, recorded in the early hours of Sunday, is not particularly threatening.
http://thenewsportal.net/?p=1044197
Residents of Kamaishi and Iwate have also been ordered to evacuate, although no damage has been reported and readings of nuclear stations in the area show no irregularities.
The area is still in shock from the catastrophic earthquake and tsunami which caused devastation in March. Early reports indicate that the latest one, recorded in the early hours of Sunday, is not particularly threatening.
http://thenewsportal.net/?p=1044197
Goodbye NotW
Sunday sees the last-ever edition of the “News of the World” tabloid newspaper, following the abrupt decision of owners, News Corp, to close it last week.
The Murdochs announced the closure after endless revelations of illegal phone-hacking operations culminated in suspicions that murder victims such as 13-year-old Milly Dowler may have been the target of journalists.
The unsavoury circumstances surrounding the paper’s demise have not stopped many trying to make the occasion into a celebration, with predictions of sales reaching five-million as people look to obtain a copy as a collectable.
There is also the possibility that the NotW will simply be replaced by the “Sun on Sunday” – a similar News International publication.
The final front page reads "Thank you and Goodbye" - a sentiment that probably will not be shared by many in the UK considering the events which have forced the premature farewell.
http://thenewsportal.net/?p=1043952
The Murdochs announced the closure after endless revelations of illegal phone-hacking operations culminated in suspicions that murder victims such as 13-year-old Milly Dowler may have been the target of journalists.
The unsavoury circumstances surrounding the paper’s demise have not stopped many trying to make the occasion into a celebration, with predictions of sales reaching five-million as people look to obtain a copy as a collectable.
There is also the possibility that the NotW will simply be replaced by the “Sun on Sunday” – a similar News International publication.
The final front page reads "Thank you and Goodbye" - a sentiment that probably will not be shared by many in the UK considering the events which have forced the premature farewell.
http://thenewsportal.net/?p=1043952
Murdoch faces NotW scandal
Rupert Murdoch, the head of News Corporation, the group which owns the News of the World, is due in London amid the crisis which has forced the closure of the British tabloid.
James Murdoch made the announcement on Thursday night, which was followed by anger over job losses and the lack of action against senior figures.
Andy Coulson has since been arrested and bailed, while Rebekah Brooks seems untouched by the allegations and police investigations.
However, with the flood of phone-hacking claims and accusations of police bribery, Murdoch obviously feels it necessary to manage the situation in person.
http://thenewsportal.net/?p=1051025
James Murdoch made the announcement on Thursday night, which was followed by anger over job losses and the lack of action against senior figures.
Andy Coulson has since been arrested and bailed, while Rebekah Brooks seems untouched by the allegations and police investigations.
However, with the flood of phone-hacking claims and accusations of police bribery, Murdoch obviously feels it necessary to manage the situation in person.
http://thenewsportal.net/?p=1051025
Celebrations for South Sudan
Citizens and world politicians have been partying in the new capital, Juda, as South Sudan celebrates its first day as an official independent country.
The new state, which has rich oil reserves, split from the north following decades of civil war which left millions dead.
President Salva Kiir hosts dignitaries such as UN secretary Ban Ki-moon at a noon-party in Juda, as people from all over the world look to join the momentous occasion.
http://thenewsportal.net/?p=1050558
Source:
http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/africa/world-leaders-arrive-for-south-sudans-independence-party-2309751.html
The new state, which has rich oil reserves, split from the north following decades of civil war which left millions dead.
President Salva Kiir hosts dignitaries such as UN secretary Ban Ki-moon at a noon-party in Juda, as people from all over the world look to join the momentous occasion.
http://thenewsportal.net/?p=1050558
Source:
http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/africa/world-leaders-arrive-for-south-sudans-independence-party-2309751.html
Friday 8 July 2011
Coulson bailed but has plenty to say about NotW
Andy Coulson, the former "News of the World" editor who was questioned on suspicion of bribing police involved in the phone-hacking scandal, has been released on bail but admits he still has plenty to say.
Coulson is a key figure in the saga, not least because he was employed by David Cameron as an aide after the Conservatives came into power.
Cameron has defended the decision to recruit him, but that judgement is looking more and more questionable.
Meanwhile, Rebekah Brooks has been removed from heading the internal inquiry into the paper's operations, although many remain furious that she remains on the Murdochs' payroll.
http://thenewsportal.net/?p=1048517
Source:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-14077405
Coulson is a key figure in the saga, not least because he was employed by David Cameron as an aide after the Conservatives came into power.
Cameron has defended the decision to recruit him, but that judgement is looking more and more questionable.
Meanwhile, Rebekah Brooks has been removed from heading the internal inquiry into the paper's operations, although many remain furious that she remains on the Murdochs' payroll.
http://thenewsportal.net/?p=1048517
Source:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-14077405
Thursday 7 July 2011
Murdochs criticised for job losses at NotW
News International is facing further criticism after the decision to close the "News of the World" resulted in hundreds losing their jobs, despite them not being involved in the phone-hacking scandal.
A key figure in the debacle is Rebekah Brooks, who was in authority when the illegal operations were taking place, but has survived all the allegations and now looks set to continue within News Corp.
Others are labelling the move a re-branding effort, with the NotW likely to be replaced by the "Sun on Sunday", another title owned by the Murdochs.
The latest dramatic twist to the saga also distracts attention from the original victims - the families of loved ones who were killed at war or by murder.
http://thenewsportal.net/?p=1043952
A key figure in the debacle is Rebekah Brooks, who was in authority when the illegal operations were taking place, but has survived all the allegations and now looks set to continue within News Corp.
Others are labelling the move a re-branding effort, with the NotW likely to be replaced by the "Sun on Sunday", another title owned by the Murdochs.
The latest dramatic twist to the saga also distracts attention from the original victims - the families of loved ones who were killed at war or by murder.
http://thenewsportal.net/?p=1043952
Reaction to NotW closure
Reaction is flooding in after James Murdoch, chairman of News International, announced the closure of the News of the World newspaper.
The tabloid's owners have decided that the phone-hacking scandal and surrounding publicity is overwhelming the brand and have made the brutal move which means that Sunday's edition will be the last.
Some are very cynical, speculating that it is a rebranding exercise with the becoming a seven-day title.
Further announcements will be forthcoming following the shocking revelations about the conduct of journalists at the paper.
http://thenewsportal.net/?p=1041201
The tabloid's owners have decided that the phone-hacking scandal and surrounding publicity is overwhelming the brand and have made the brutal move which means that Sunday's edition will be the last.
Some are very cynical, speculating that it is a rebranding exercise with the becoming a seven-day title.
Further announcements will be forthcoming following the shocking revelations about the conduct of journalists at the paper.
http://thenewsportal.net/?p=1041201
Wednesday 6 July 2011
Earthquake triggers New Zealand tsunami
An earthquake of approximately 7.8 magnitude struck near remote New Zealand islands and Tonga in the Pacific, triggering a local tsunami warning on Wednesday night.
The volcanic Kermadic Island peaks are hundreds of miles northeast of Auckland, so it seems unlikely the mainland will receive serious flooding damage.
The Pacific Tsunami Warning Centre in the US issued the warning, but the details and full severity remain to be seen.
http://thenewsportal.net/?p=1046022
The volcanic Kermadic Island peaks are hundreds of miles northeast of Auckland, so it seems unlikely the mainland will receive serious flooding damage.
The Pacific Tsunami Warning Centre in the US issued the warning, but the details and full severity remain to be seen.
http://thenewsportal.net/?p=1046022
Cavendish sprints to first Tour stage
Britain's Mark Cavendish won the sprint for victory on the fifth stage of this season's Tour de France - the sixteenth stage win of his career.
It was a tricky ride which saw many crashes, and riders including Bradley Wiggins and Alberto Contador hit the deck but were unharmed.
On an uphill finish a number of riders attacked but Cavendish held his nerve to storm through ahead of his rivals.
Thor Hushovd retained the yellow jersey while Geraint Thomas earned another impressive position.
http://thenewsportal.net/?p=1045647
It was a tricky ride which saw many crashes, and riders including Bradley Wiggins and Alberto Contador hit the deck but were unharmed.
On an uphill finish a number of riders attacked but Cavendish held his nerve to storm through ahead of his rivals.
Thor Hushovd retained the yellow jersey while Geraint Thomas earned another impressive position.
http://thenewsportal.net/?p=1045647
Advertisers pull out during NotW debacle
Companies advertising in the News of the World are pulling out as the phone-hacking scandal intensifies.
An emergency debate in the House of Commons on Wednesday resulted in David Cameron urging further investigations, although a statement from News International boss Rupert Murdoch defended some of the staff involved.
Associated companies are not so sympathetic in the wake of allegations that the newspaper hacked into phones of the families of murder victims, looking to distance themselves from the public anger surrounding the revelations.
http://thenewsportal.net/?p=1045729
An emergency debate in the House of Commons on Wednesday resulted in David Cameron urging further investigations, although a statement from News International boss Rupert Murdoch defended some of the staff involved.
Associated companies are not so sympathetic in the wake of allegations that the newspaper hacked into phones of the families of murder victims, looking to distance themselves from the public anger surrounding the revelations.
http://thenewsportal.net/?p=1045729
NHS chiefs warn of rising waiting times for announcements of missed targets
Senior figures in the NHS have sent out a warning that the increasing strain on budgets and staff will impact on the amount of time it takes them to announce future target failures.
The organisation is struggling to cope with the limited resources which remain after the public spending cuts, and there are now admissions that the government will experience longer waiting times for bad news from now on.
Mike Farrar of the NHS confederation reluctantly explained, “At the moment, it’s taking us up to 18 weeks to report what’s going wrong, and how badly it’s going wrong.”
“However, with the financial situation as it is, it’s going to take much longer for us to be sure about which part of the NHS is going under next.”
“There’s no way we’re going to be able to keep up with the government’s targets to inform them of missed targets.”
A bit more than 18 weeks
Many NHS officials have claimed that the financial situation is the worst they’ve ever seen, and it seems inevitable that it will result in the government having to wait longer than their 18-week limit for bad news.
Health Secretary Andrew Lansley confidently denied the claims, saying, “We are certain that the NHS will not exceed the 18-week limit we hold them to.”
“Not that they’ve told us that, yet.”
“There is confidence within the Coalition that our plans will result in better patient care and financial stability.”
“But we’re going to have to wait at least 18 weeks for that to be confirmed.”
Source:
Tuesday 5 July 2011
14 more killed in Hama
Activists in Syria have claimed that government forces have shot 14 people dead in the city of Hama as the revolt continues.
It is one of the key locations which are centres of the struggle between President Bashar al-Assad and the public who are seeking democracy.
The continuation of the atrocities of the authorities against their people have caused the charity, Amnesty, to demand that the UN report the Syrian government to The Hague, although no action has yet been confirmed.
http://thenewsportal.net/?p=1043295
It is one of the key locations which are centres of the struggle between President Bashar al-Assad and the public who are seeking democracy.
The continuation of the atrocities of the authorities against their people have caused the charity, Amnesty, to demand that the UN report the Syrian government to The Hague, although no action has yet been confirmed.
http://thenewsportal.net/?p=1043295
197 dead in Sudan boat tragedy
197 people have been killed after a boat caught fire off the coast of Sudan and sank. Only 3 survived.
The boat was Yemeni-owned and was carrying non-Sudanese illegal immigrants to Saudi Arabia. 4 Yemenis have been arrested. (Presumably the owners.)
http://thenewsportal.net/?p=1043842
Source:
http://www.lemonde.fr/afrique/article/2011/07/06/soudan-197-migrants-se-noient-apres-un-incendie-sur-leur-bateau_1545250_3212.html#xtor=RSS-3208001?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter
The boat was Yemeni-owned and was carrying non-Sudanese illegal immigrants to Saudi Arabia. 4 Yemenis have been arrested. (Presumably the owners.)
http://thenewsportal.net/?p=1043842
Source:
http://www.lemonde.fr/afrique/article/2011/07/06/soudan-197-migrants-se-noient-apres-un-incendie-sur-leur-bateau_1545250_3212.html#xtor=RSS-3208001?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter
Casey Anthony found not guilty
Casey Anthony, the murder suspect in the case of the death of her two-year-old daughter, Caylee, has been found not guilty.
The trial has caused a media furore in the US due to speculation over the eventual outcome. The toddler went missing in 2008 and her remains were found six months later.
Anthony will serve a prison sentence but has escaped the possible death sentence which could have come with a guilty verdict.
Despite the odd circumstances surrounding the disappearance and the events after, the jury gave a unanimous response to first-degree murder and other charges.
http://thenewsportal.net/?p=1043433
Source:
http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/jul/05/casey-anthony-verdict-not-guilty-murder
The trial has caused a media furore in the US due to speculation over the eventual outcome. The toddler went missing in 2008 and her remains were found six months later.
Anthony will serve a prison sentence but has escaped the possible death sentence which could have come with a guilty verdict.
Despite the odd circumstances surrounding the disappearance and the events after, the jury gave a unanimous response to first-degree murder and other charges.
http://thenewsportal.net/?p=1043433
Source:
http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/jul/05/casey-anthony-verdict-not-guilty-murder
NoTW under pressure after Dowler hacking allegations
The News of the World is suffering heavy criticism, including from the Prime Minister, in the wake of allegations that it may have hacked into the phone of murdered teenager Millie Dowler when she first went missing.
The revelations have prompted widespread condemnation of the paper and its conduct following the scandal which surrounded celebrities being hacked.
David Cameron described the details as "truly dreadful", while the Dowler family might be looking to sue the paper.
On a similar note, two papers could be sued for their reports about one of the (innocent) suuspects in the Jo Yeates murder investigation.
http://thenewsportal.net/?p=1041201
Source:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-14024668
The revelations have prompted widespread condemnation of the paper and its conduct following the scandal which surrounded celebrities being hacked.
David Cameron described the details as "truly dreadful", while the Dowler family might be looking to sue the paper.
On a similar note, two papers could be sued for their reports about one of the (innocent) suuspects in the Jo Yeates murder investigation.
http://thenewsportal.net/?p=1041201
Source:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-14024668
Monday 4 July 2011
Farrar earns first sprint win
Garmin-Cervelo's Tyler Farrar won his first stage on the third day of the Tour de France. His team-mate, Thor Hushovd, retained the yellow jersey.
Farrar triumphed after an effective lead-out started by Hushovd. HTC's Mark Cavendish was unable to contest the sprint after being caught up in a crash in the final kilometre.
The standings after three stages see Hushovd lead le Tour by the smallest of margins, but favourites Alberto Contador and the Schleck brothers are looking for around a minute after being delayed by a crash on the opening day.
http://thenewsportal.net/?p=1041229
Farrar triumphed after an effective lead-out started by Hushovd. HTC's Mark Cavendish was unable to contest the sprint after being caught up in a crash in the final kilometre.
The standings after three stages see Hushovd lead le Tour by the smallest of margins, but favourites Alberto Contador and the Schleck brothers are looking for around a minute after being delayed by a crash on the opening day.
http://thenewsportal.net/?p=1041229
Strauss-Kahn allegations persist
Only days after the apparent collapse of the rape trial in America which almost cost Dominique Strauss-Kahn his career, another case has emerged, this time in France.
The accusation will come from a French writer whose lawyers claims that the former IMF chief tried to rape her in 2003.
The news comes as his allies were hyping a return to the political stage for Strauss-Kahn, and he is apparently threatening counter-charges against the new alleged victim.
The French presidential election is next year, and he will have to work extremely hard to clear another case against him if he is to stand any hope of running.
http://thenewsportal.net/?p=1034647
The accusation will come from a French writer whose lawyers claims that the former IMF chief tried to rape her in 2003.
The news comes as his allies were hyping a return to the political stage for Strauss-Kahn, and he is apparently threatening counter-charges against the new alleged victim.
The French presidential election is next year, and he will have to work extremely hard to clear another case against him if he is to stand any hope of running.
http://thenewsportal.net/?p=1034647
Fox news blames hackers for Obama death tweet
Fox news has blamed hackers for a message posted from its account on Twitter early on Monday which stated that president Barack Obama had been assassinated.
Followers on the micro-blogging site received the message in the early hours, on the day that America celebrates its independence.
Fox reported the hacking immediately, although that has not prevented a great deal of confusion and offence being caused by this distasteful stunt.
http://thenewsportal.net/?p=1040370
Followers on the micro-blogging site received the message in the early hours, on the day that America celebrates its independence.
Fox reported the hacking immediately, although that has not prevented a great deal of confusion and offence being caused by this distasteful stunt.
http://thenewsportal.net/?p=1040370
Sunday 3 July 2011
Nadal aced by Djoker
The two best players in the world met in the Wimbledon mens’ final on Sunday as defending champion Rafael Nadal faced Novak Djokovic.
Both players’ form has been sensational this year and at the start of the match they could not be separated. However, Djokovic snatched the first set 6 – 4 after grabbing a late break-point.
The second set was nowhere near as close as the Serb broke twice to take it 6 – 1, only for Nadal to return the favour in the third.
A vital break late in the fourth let Djokovic serve for the title, and he held out for a 6 – 4 6 – 1 1 – 6 6 - 3 victory to earn his first Wimbledon.
The womens’ championship was won by the Czech youngster Petra Kvitova in two sets against Maria Sharapova.
Friday 1 July 2011
Nadal smashes Murray dream
Defending champion Rafael Nadal came back from losing the first set to outplay Andy Murray and reach the Wimbledon final.
Murray started the better, serving and rallying superbly, and he took the opener 7-5. However, a dramatic turnaround saw the Spaniard quickly race to complete control.
The Scot's level dropped and Nadal suddenly appeared vastly superior, breaking at will to take the next two sets 6-2. Murray could not muster any sort of fightback and went down 5-7 6-2 6-2 6-4.
Nadal will face Novak Djokovic on Sunday after the Serb beat Jo-Wilfried Tsonga in four sets in the first semi-final.
http://thenewsportal.net/?p=1034703
Murray started the better, serving and rallying superbly, and he took the opener 7-5. However, a dramatic turnaround saw the Spaniard quickly race to complete control.
The Scot's level dropped and Nadal suddenly appeared vastly superior, breaking at will to take the next two sets 6-2. Murray could not muster any sort of fightback and went down 5-7 6-2 6-2 6-4.
Nadal will face Novak Djokovic on Sunday after the Serb beat Jo-Wilfried Tsonga in four sets in the first semi-final.
http://thenewsportal.net/?p=1034703
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