James Whakaruru – Fiji Coup – Freed Hostage – Zimbabwe Elections – Japanese Elections – Backpackers Fire – St Stephens
– Spectrum Injunction – TV Programme Funding - Rowing
JAMES WHAKARURU: The Commissioner for Children says the death of James Whakaruru should stir all the government agencies
involved in the case into action. The government agencies are promising to do better.
FIJI COUP: The Fiji Military and hostage takers appear far apart following another breakdown in negotiations. The
hostage takers want a new President appointed
FREED HOSTAGE: Meanwhile one of the freed hostages says that the hostages were denied all outside information after a
week in captivity. She says the first two weeks were the worst.
ZIMBABWE ELECTIONS: Two days of voting in the Zimbabwe election have ended without the violence that has characterised
the campaign. The opposition claims the public have voted for change but Robert Mugabe will still be able to form the
next government even if he has only a minority in Parliament.
JAPANESE ELECTIONS: The governing coalition of Liberal Democratic Party has won Japanese general elections.
BACKPACKERS FIRE: Queensland police are still working to recover the bodies from the site of a backpackers fire. They
are also seeking a suspect for questioning.
ST STEPHENS: The board of St Stephens says it can turn around its financial problems and wants to be allowed to stay
open.
SPECTRUM INJUNCTION: The Internet company IHUG is seeking a judicial review of the frequency auction for third
generation spectrum. Nick Wood wants a 20% limit on the amount of spectrum any one company can buy.
TV PROGRAMME FUNDING: Ninox films has brought in receivers leading to discussions about reviewing the programming
funding system.
ROWING: Women’s double scullers have won a gold at the world championships. Other rowing teams have also performed well.