Latest news & blogs
Superweed threat disputed
A herbicide-resistant strain of charlock has been found growing in a GM oilseed rape field. Hybrids between the two species were previously thought unlikely, and it is not clear exactly how gene transfer occurred. Superweeds are an increasing problem in Canada. Defra report - Guardian - Scotsman - New Scientist.
ID card refusers reach target
An online pledge to refuse to register for ID cards has reached its 10,000 target, but you can still sign up. A new pledge has been set up for those who want to support the refusers, but are unable to commit to refusal.
Also: Card would be remotely readable
Energy-efficiency plans dropped
Promised building regulations have been dismissed as 'unneccessary gold-plating', causing conflict with John Prescott's office, while 60% of new building does not meet existing laws. A possible review of nuclear power may also be discussed by the Cabinet.
UNESCO declares climate change threatens world heritage sites.
Success may result in all countries being obliged to reduce carbon emissions.
Iraqi women concerned at new constitution
In order to achieve consensus Shari'a will explicitly limit women's rights
Speaking up in Nepal
Reporters have found a way around King Gyanendra's broadcasting ban using large roadside meetings.
Two-thirds believe London bombings linked to Iraq
According to an ICM/Guardian poll, 33% of Britons believe the prime minister bears "a lot" of responsibility for the London bombings and a further 31% "a little". Justice Not Vengeance also highlights an official report into causes of 'muslim extremism'.
Michel Chossudovsky defies Bob Geldof, and the rest of the corporate sponsors of Live8 to "Put their money where their mouths ar
An alternative view of the 'greatest concert ever aired live', proposing that Live8 has undermined both the anti-globalization and anti-war movements
G8 debt deal under threat.
Some European governments are having second thoughts about G8 debt relief proposals, considering giving lenders such as the IMF more leverage over poor countries.
US Report asserts that Guantanamo treatment is 'degrading'.
US military investigators say they have found evidence of degrading and abusive treatment by interrogators at the Guantanamo Bay prison camp in Cuba.