Mr Ashley had been asked to give evidence about the treatment of his workers.
It follows a BBC investigation into the Derbyshire company's warehouse working practises.
Mr Ashley has until 21 March to respond after a letter from Hartlepool MP Iain Wright.
The letter reveals Mr Ashley had invited the Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS) select committee - which Mr Wright chairs - to a meeting at the company's base in Shirebrook.
"The treatment of low-paid workers and enforcement of the national minimum wage are issues that the committee will be keeping under review over the coming months," Mr Wright's letter states.
"In line with select committees' commitment to transparency, it is normal practice for the BIS Committee to meet in public at Westminster and we agreed to adhere to this practice on this occasion.
"A number of alternative dates have been offered to you by the Committee Clerk, but... you have not accepted any of them, nor agreed in principle to attend.
"Should you fail in your reply to agree to attend on one of the dates offered to you...the committee reserves the right to take the matter further, including seeking the support of the House of Commons in respect of any complaint of contempt."
Sports Direct has not responded to the BBC's request for a comment.
The company has previously pledged to review worker rights, with oversight by Mr Ashley, who also owns Newcastle United Football Club.

Summary: Boss Ashley has been threatened after failing to appear in front of a committee.

Answer: 1


Mr Ashley had been asked to give evidence about the treatment of his workers.
It follows a BBC investigation into the Derbyshire company's warehouse working practises.
Mr Ashley has until 21 March to respond after a letter from Hartlepool MP Iain Wright.
The letter reveals Mr Ashley had invited the Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS) select committee - which Mr Wright chairs - to a meeting at the company's base in Shirebrook.
"The treatment of low-paid workers and enforcement of the national minimum wage are issues that the committee will be keeping under review over the coming months," Mr Wright's letter states.
"In line with select committees' commitment to transparency, it is normal practice for the BIS Committee to meet in public at Westminster and we agreed to adhere to this practice on this occasion.
"A number of alternative dates have been offered to you by the Committee Clerk, but... you have not accepted any of them, nor agreed in principle to attend.
"Should you fail in your reply to agree to attend on one of the dates offered to you...the committee reserves the right to take the matter further, including seeking the support of the House of Commons in respect of any complaint of contempt."
Sports Direct has not responded to the BBC's request for a comment.
The company has previously pledged to review worker rights, with oversight by Mr Ashley, who also owns Newcastle United Football Club.

Summary: Sports Direct owner Mike Ashley has been accused of contempt of Parliament after he refused to attend a meeting with a select committee.

Answer: 0


Bielsa, 60, a former Argentina and Chile boss, resigned from French club Marseille in August and is unattached.
He led Spanish club Athletic Bilbao to the 2012 Europa League and Copa del Rey finals before a 2014 move to Marseille.
Swansea parted company with Garry Monk on Wednesday and are thought to want a new boss before Sunday's West Ham game.
Monk left the club following a run of just one win in 11 Premier League games.
AEK Athens boss Gus Poyet was thought to be in the frame to replace him, but the Greek club said that they had not received an approach from Swansea regarding Poyet.
Sevilla manager Unai Emery has also been linked with the job.
Swansea's first-team coach Alan Curtis was in caretaker charge of Saturday's 2-1 defeat at Manchester City.

Summary: Swansea is thought to be searching for a new manager.

Answer: 1


Bielsa, 60, a former Argentina and Chile boss, resigned from French club Marseille in August and is unattached.
He led Spanish club Athletic Bilbao to the 2012 Europa League and Copa del Rey finals before a 2014 move to Marseille.
Swansea parted company with Garry Monk on Wednesday and are thought to want a new boss before Sunday's West Ham game.
Monk left the club following a run of just one win in 11 Premier League games.
AEK Athens boss Gus Poyet was thought to be in the frame to replace him, but the Greek club said that they had not received an approach from Swansea regarding Poyet.
Sevilla manager Unai Emery has also been linked with the job.
Swansea's first-team coach Alan Curtis was in caretaker charge of Saturday's 2-1 defeat at Manchester City.

Summary: Swansea City have confirmed that they are in talks to appoint former Spanish boss Marcelo Bielsa as their new manager.

Answer: 0


Neel Croos, 26, died from a head injury following a fight in Holborn Way, Mitcham on 23 November 2015.
Prashad Sothalingam, nicknamed Bullet, was one of several young men from the Tamil community who had been at a birthday party when violence erupted.
He was jailed after being found guilty of murder and wounding with intent at a retrial at the Old Bailey.
Sothalingam, who had previously been convicted of violent disorder, was told he must serve a minimum of 29 years in prison.
The court heard the killing was the result of a "power struggle" within the Tooting Boys gang between the Elders and Sothalingam's group, the Youngers.
Mr Croos's group, which was also armed, had been hunted down by Sothalingam's group.
Sothalingam had been at a birthday party on the fifth floor of a Morrison's car park in Mitcham, the court heard.
When they saw a rival faction arrive they attacked them with a variety of weapons.
One witness said he heard someone say in Tamil: "There they are. Go get them."
He told the jury he had seen Sothalingam, who he had previously seen playing football, swinging an axe at Mr Croos, hitting him on the head.
He also told the court he had seen other men carrying a sword, metal poles and socks stuffed with snooker balls or stones.
The judge also jailed Sugan Selvarajan for a total of 14 years for wounding with intent and violent disorder, and Sivakaran Ockersz for 31 months for violent disorder and an unrelated ATM fraud.
Visuparathan Dayaparan was sent to prison for 27 months after being convicted of violent disorder.
Sothalingam, 26, from Mitcham; Ockersz, 19, of Wallington; Selvarajan, 33, of Mitcham; and Dayaparan aka Visu, 24, of Mitcham, had denied the charges.

Summary: A man has been jailed for killing a rival gang member with an axe during a fight in a car park.

Answer: 1


Neel Croos, 26, died from a head injury following a fight in Holborn Way, Mitcham on 23 November 2015.
Prashad Sothalingam, nicknamed Bullet, was one of several young men from the Tamil community who had been at a birthday party when violence erupted.
He was jailed after being found guilty of murder and wounding with intent at a retrial at the Old Bailey.
Sothalingam, who had previously been convicted of violent disorder, was told he must serve a minimum of 29 years in prison.
The court heard the killing was the result of a "power struggle" within the Tooting Boys gang between the Elders and Sothalingam's group, the Youngers.
Mr Croos's group, which was also armed, had been hunted down by Sothalingam's group.
Sothalingam had been at a birthday party on the fifth floor of a Morrison's car park in Mitcham, the court heard.
When they saw a rival faction arrive they attacked them with a variety of weapons.
One witness said he heard someone say in Tamil: "There they are. Go get them."
He told the jury he had seen Sothalingam, who he had previously seen playing football, swinging an axe at Mr Croos, hitting him on the head.
He also told the court he had seen other men carrying a sword, metal poles and socks stuffed with snooker balls or stones.
The judge also jailed Sugan Selvarajan for a total of 14 years for wounding with intent and violent disorder, and Sivakaran Ockersz for 31 months for violent disorder and an unrelated ATM fraud.
Visuparathan Dayaparan was sent to prison for 27 months after being convicted of violent disorder.
Sothalingam, 26, from Mitcham; Ockersz, 19, of Wallington; Selvarajan, 33, of Mitcham; and Dayaparan aka Visu, 24, of Mitcham, had denied the charges.

Summary: A gang member who killed a man in a street fight in north London has been jailed for life.

Answer: 0


The 26-year-old, who has been linked with a move to Real Madrid, fractured his right ankle while on international duty with Belgium on Sunday.
Chelsea said the operation on Monday was "successful", but that Hazard will not return to training for approximately three months.
The new Premier League season is due to begin on 12 August.
Hazard will also miss pre-season games against Arsenal, Bayern Munich and Inter Milan in Singapore from 22-29 July, and the Community Shield against Arsenal on 6 August.
Hazard was instrumental as Chelsea won the Premier League last season, scoring 16 goals in 36 games.

Summary: Chelsea's Hazard will miss the start of the Premier League season after having surgery on a broken ankle.

Answer: 1


The 26-year-old, who has been linked with a move to Real Madrid, fractured his right ankle while on international duty with Belgium on Sunday.
Chelsea said the operation on Monday was "successful", but that Hazard will not return to training for approximately three months.
The new Premier League season is due to begin on 12 August.
Hazard will also miss pre-season games against Arsenal, Bayern Munich and Inter Milan in Singapore from 22-29 July, and the Community Shield against Arsenal on 6 August.
Hazard was instrumental as Chelsea won the Premier League last season, scoring 16 goals in 36 games.

Summary: Chelsea striker Eden Hazard will miss the start of the new season after having surgery on a broken ankle.

Answer: 0


The body of the man in his 70s, was found at the house in Nettleden Road, Little Gaddesden, near Berkhamsted, on Saturday afternoon.
A man in his 80s was also taken to hospital, a police spokeswoman said.
Detectives want to question 55-year-old Ian John McLoughlin, also known as Ian John Baker, and have warned people not to approach him.
Det Ch Insp Martin Brunning, from the Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire major crime unit, said: "The investigation is still in its early stages.
"However, we are continuing to treat the death as murder. We urgently want to speak to Ian McLoughlin in connection with this offence."
He is described as white, about 6ft (1.8m) tall, with straight, greying, collar-length hair and of average build.
He is believed to have been wearing sunglasses, blue jeans or three-quarter length trousers and a dark blue, light blue and white checked short-sleeved shirt with a button-down collar.
Anyone with information has been urged to contact police or Crimestoppers.
Officers have been conducting additional patrols in the area to provide reassurance to residents.

Summary: A man has been arrested on suspicion of murder after a body was found at a house in Bedfordshire.

Answer: 0


The body of the man in his 70s, was found at the house in Nettleden Road, Little Gaddesden, near Berkhamsted, on Saturday afternoon.
A man in his 80s was also taken to hospital, a police spokeswoman said.
Detectives want to question 55-year-old Ian John McLoughlin, also known as Ian John Baker, and have warned people not to approach him.
Det Ch Insp Martin Brunning, from the Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire major crime unit, said: "The investigation is still in its early stages.
"However, we are continuing to treat the death as murder. We urgently want to speak to Ian McLoughlin in connection with this offence."
He is described as white, about 6ft (1.8m) tall, with straight, greying, collar-length hair and of average build.
He is believed to have been wearing sunglasses, blue jeans or three-quarter length trousers and a dark blue, light blue and white checked short-sleeved shirt with a button-down collar.
Anyone with information has been urged to contact police or Crimestoppers.
Officers have been conducting additional patrols in the area to provide reassurance to residents.

Summary: Police are seeking a man over the murder of an elderly man found dead at a house in Little Gaddesden.

Answer: 1


Zachary Barker, nine, died in hospital after the collision in Spring Gardens, Leek, in Staffordshire, last Saturday.
His mother Stephanie said she wanted others to "benefit from his short life".
She said transplants meant "even in death" he could carry on helping.
More updates on this story and others in Staffordshire
In a statement released by police, she said: "Zachary was just a lovely lad, full of life and joy. The whole family are devastated by the loss and we cannot believe that we will not see him again.
"He will remain in our hearts, thoughts and memories forever.
"We took the decision to allow his organs to be used for transplant, so that others may benefit from his short life.
"He was a tremendous son who was always willing to help everyone and even in death, he will continue to help others".
Police said a friend of the family has set up a Just Giving page to assist with the cost of the funeral.

Summary: The mother of a boy who died after a collision says allowing her "tremendous" son's organs to be donated will let him "continue to help others".

Answer: 1


Zachary Barker, nine, died in hospital after the collision in Spring Gardens, Leek, in Staffordshire, last Saturday.
His mother Stephanie said she wanted others to "benefit from his short life".
She said transplants meant "even in death" he could carry on helping.
More updates on this story and others in Staffordshire
In a statement released by police, she said: "Zachary was just a lovely lad, full of life and joy. The whole family are devastated by the loss and we cannot believe that we will not see him again.
"He will remain in our hearts, thoughts and memories forever.
"We took the decision to allow his organs to be used for transplant, so that others may benefit from his short life.
"He was a tremendous son who was always willing to help everyone and even in death, he will continue to help others".
Police said a friend of the family has set up a Just Giving page to assist with the cost of the funeral.

Summary: The mother of a boy who died after being hit by a car has said he will "remain in our hearts forever".

Answer: 0


The eight-day hearing in Ebbw Vale is examining the request to take over 250 hectares (600 acres) of common land.
Backers, including Blaenau Gwent council, have offered around 320 hectares (800 acres) replacement land.
The inquiry has heard conflicting accounts from experts over claims the circuit would damage habitats and plant life by building on the common land.
Natural Resources Wales said it was "difficult to conclude" that the replacement land was of equal value, but it was not opposing the development overall.
But an ecology report presented by the developers said there would be a "net gain" in biodiversity because the plans included work to enhance other habitats nearby - which the Gwent wildlife trust argued against.
The Planning Inspectorate for Wales will make a recommendation after the inquiry in Ebbw vale, before Welsh government ministers have the final say on whether the plans can go ahead.

Summary: An inquiry into plans to build a circuit has started.

Answer: 1


The eight-day hearing in Ebbw Vale is examining the request to take over 250 hectares (600 acres) of common land.
Backers, including Blaenau Gwent council, have offered around 320 hectares (800 acres) replacement land.
The inquiry has heard conflicting accounts from experts over claims the circuit would damage habitats and plant life by building on the common land.
Natural Resources Wales said it was "difficult to conclude" that the replacement land was of equal value, but it was not opposing the development overall.
But an ecology report presented by the developers said there would be a "net gain" in biodiversity because the plans included work to enhance other habitats nearby - which the Gwent wildlife trust argued against.
The Planning Inspectorate for Wales will make a recommendation after the inquiry in Ebbw vale, before Welsh government ministers have the final say on whether the plans can go ahead.

Summary: Plans to build a circuit around a Gwynedd cycle track have been given the go-ahead by the public inquiry into the project.

Answer: 0


Two Diarmuid Murtagh goals helped Connacht lead 2-3 to 0-3 before Aidan Breen replied with an Ulster goal.
Damien Comer hit a third Connacht goal as they led 3-6 to 1-10 at half-time before Ulster took control.
Despite losing Chrissy McKaigue to a black card, Ulster hit 1-4 without reply, with Charlie Vernon netting.
McKaigue was joined in the Ulster squad at Carrick-on-Shannon by his Slaughtneil team-mate Brendan Rogers, despite their upcoming All-Ireland club championship duties.
Connacht started strongly with their scorer in chief Murtagh firing their opening goal after 7 minutes and again finding the net two minutes later.
Ulster responded well with Fermanagh's Breen finding the net for his provincial for the second time in a week with a 18th-minute goal.
Pete McGrath's charges cut the gap to two points twice over the next six minutes, and left the minimum between the sides for the first time, after a Tomas Corrigan score.
However, Connacht were causing the Ulster defence problems, with Galway's Comer cutting in for a 28th minute goal, as the hosts led by two at the break.
Ulster came fired up on the restart, and despite losing substitute McKaigue to a black card, kept motoring well.
Peter Harte and Corrigan added point before Vernon cut through for a goal in a spell which saw Ulster score 1-4 without reply.
Connacht could only manage two points from frees in the closing quarter, with Emyln Mulligan and Paul Conroy on target.
After the game Ulster captain Eoin Donnelly accepted the cup from GAA President Aogan O Fearghail.

Summary: Ulster produced a strong second half to earn a comeback win over Connacht.

Answer: 1


Two Diarmuid Murtagh goals helped Connacht lead 2-3 to 0-3 before Aidan Breen replied with an Ulster goal.
Damien Comer hit a third Connacht goal as they led 3-6 to 1-10 at half-time before Ulster took control.
Despite losing Chrissy McKaigue to a black card, Ulster hit 1-4 without reply, with Charlie Vernon netting.
McKaigue was joined in the Ulster squad at Carrick-on-Shannon by his Slaughtneil team-mate Brendan Rogers, despite their upcoming All-Ireland club championship duties.
Connacht started strongly with their scorer in chief Murtagh firing their opening goal after 7 minutes and again finding the net two minutes later.
Ulster responded well with Fermanagh's Breen finding the net for his provincial for the second time in a week with a 18th-minute goal.
Pete McGrath's charges cut the gap to two points twice over the next six minutes, and left the minimum between the sides for the first time, after a Tomas Corrigan score.
However, Connacht were causing the Ulster defence problems, with Galway's Comer cutting in for a 28th minute goal, as the hosts led by two at the break.
Ulster came fired up on the restart, and despite losing substitute McKaigue to a black card, kept motoring well.
Peter Harte and Corrigan added point before Vernon cut through for a goal in a spell which saw Ulster score 1-4 without reply.
Connacht could only manage two points from frees in the closing quarter, with Emyln Mulligan and Paul Conroy on target.
After the game Ulster captain Eoin Donnelly accepted the cup from GAA President Aogan O Fearghail.

Summary: Ulster's hopes of winning the All-Ireland Hurling Championship were ended as they were beaten by Connacht in the final of the game.

Answer: 0


The call was made by Scottish Conservative Mary Scanlon and backed by SNP MSP Mike MacKenzie.
The state of Holyrood's coffee was raised during questions about staff and services at the Edinburgh building.
Linda Fabiani suggested the complainers could use "very good coffee bags" and "some really hot water".
She was answering on behalf of the Scottish Parliamentary Corporate Body which runs the parliament.
After taking a question about food waste disposal, Ms Fabiani was informed by Ms Scanlon that she would like to "increase the amount of food disposal" in some areas, namely the coffee for committee meetings.
Ms Scanlon, the MSP for the Highlands and Islands, told the chamber: "On behalf of my colleague on the audit and education committee, Colin Beattie, and colleagues across this parliament from all parties can I ask if the corporate body will ensure that new and existing MSPs get a decent cup of coffee in committee in session five [after the next Holyrood election]."
Ms Scanlon was backed by Mr MacKenzie who said he "shared the concerns".
He had also observed that the quality of the coffee diminished the longer it sat in their flasks.
Ms Fabiani responded by saying: "I guess it is all a matter of taste I quite like the coffee that we get in committee."
However, she added that it was a complaint she had heard "over the last couple of years".
Ms Fabiani said the fact the coffee urns were being emptied each day suggested that most people were "quite happy" with what was being offered.

Summary: The Scottish Parliament's audit and education committee has been asked to improve the quality of the coffee it serves in its chamber.

Answer: 0


The call was made by Scottish Conservative Mary Scanlon and backed by SNP MSP Mike MacKenzie.
The state of Holyrood's coffee was raised during questions about staff and services at the Edinburgh building.
Linda Fabiani suggested the complainers could use "very good coffee bags" and "some really hot water".
She was answering on behalf of the Scottish Parliamentary Corporate Body which runs the parliament.
After taking a question about food waste disposal, Ms Fabiani was informed by Ms Scanlon that she would like to "increase the amount of food disposal" in some areas, namely the coffee for committee meetings.
Ms Scanlon, the MSP for the Highlands and Islands, told the chamber: "On behalf of my colleague on the audit and education committee, Colin Beattie, and colleagues across this parliament from all parties can I ask if the corporate body will ensure that new and existing MSPs get a decent cup of coffee in committee in session five [after the next Holyrood election]."
Ms Scanlon was backed by Mr MacKenzie who said he "shared the concerns".
He had also observed that the quality of the coffee diminished the longer it sat in their flasks.
Ms Fabiani responded by saying: "I guess it is all a matter of taste I quite like the coffee that we get in committee."
However, she added that it was a complaint she had heard "over the last couple of years".
Ms Fabiani said the fact the coffee urns were being emptied each day suggested that most people were "quite happy" with what was being offered.

Summary: Pleas have been made by members of the Scottish Parliament for better quality coffee to be served to them during committee meetings.

Answer: 1


Media playback is unsupported on your device
16 December 2014 Last updated at 08:58 GMT
Dr Andrew Goodall said a choice may have to be made between emergency care and non-urgent surgery.
In an extended interview with BBC Wales health correspondent Owain Clarke, Dr Goodall said hospitals might make the decision not to schedule surgery in the first place to focus on "front door pressures" during the peak winter months.
Two hospitals, Morriston in Swansea and the Princess of Wales in Bridgend, have already cancelled some surgical procedures until after Christmas.

Summary: Dr Andrew Goodall has told BBC Wales winter pressures could force hospitals to cancel operations.

Answer: 1


Media playback is unsupported on your device
16 December 2014 Last updated at 08:58 GMT
Dr Andrew Goodall said a choice may have to be made between emergency care and non-urgent surgery.
In an extended interview with BBC Wales health correspondent Owain Clarke, Dr Goodall said hospitals might make the decision not to schedule surgery in the first place to focus on "front door pressures" during the peak winter months.
Two hospitals, Morriston in Swansea and the Princess of Wales in Bridgend, have already cancelled some surgical procedures until after Christmas.

Summary: A leading doctor has warned that some hospitals may have to postpone operations until after Christmas.

Answer: 0


The alarm was raised at about midnight on Thursday when the men became stranded after their boat lost engine power.
Three lifeboats and a rescue helicopter went to the scene. It has been described as a "major recue operation".
Mark Barnett from the Lough Swilly lifeboat described it as a community effort.
"The fishermen had gone out in their boat around Malin pier and then decided to head a little east," he said.
"The fishermen are fine but had a lucky escape.
"They had been out for half an hour when the engine broke down and they started to drift.
"They had no mobile phone signal to raise the alarm."

Summary: A rescue operation has been launched after two fishermen were stranded on a pier in the Lough Swilly area of Lough Swilly.

Answer: 0


The alarm was raised at about midnight on Thursday when the men became stranded after their boat lost engine power.
Three lifeboats and a rescue helicopter went to the scene. It has been described as a "major recue operation".
Mark Barnett from the Lough Swilly lifeboat described it as a community effort.
"The fishermen had gone out in their boat around Malin pier and then decided to head a little east," he said.
"The fishermen are fine but had a lucky escape.
"They had been out for half an hour when the engine broke down and they started to drift.
"They had no mobile phone signal to raise the alarm."

Summary: Fishermen have been rescued off the coast.

Answer: 1


The eight-day race, a precursor to the Tour which begins on 2 July, starts with a 4km time trial on Sunday.
"There will be many challengers [in the Tour]. But if I must pick two, I would say Froome and Nairo Quintana," said Contador, also a two-time Tour winner.
"The Criterium will allow me to test myself against my rivals."
Team Sky rider Froome has won the Criterium in each of the two years he has won the Tour - 2013 and 2015 - but Contador, who rides for Tinkoff, has never won the Criterium.
"My primary objective is to finish [the Criterium] in good physical condition with respect to the Tour - to be ready," said the Spaniard.
"I'm not thinking about the overall victory but, obviously, if the chance is there..."
Astana's Fabio Aru and FDJ's Thibaut Pinot will also contest the Criterium, but Movistar's Quintana is not competing in the race.

Summary: Contador believes the Criterium is the perfect stage to face his rival, two-time Tour winner Froome.

Answer: 1


The eight-day race, a precursor to the Tour which begins on 2 July, starts with a 4km time trial on Sunday.
"There will be many challengers [in the Tour]. But if I must pick two, I would say Froome and Nairo Quintana," said Contador, also a two-time Tour winner.
"The Criterium will allow me to test myself against my rivals."
Team Sky rider Froome has won the Criterium in each of the two years he has won the Tour - 2013 and 2015 - but Contador, who rides for Tinkoff, has never won the Criterium.
"My primary objective is to finish [the Criterium] in good physical condition with respect to the Tour - to be ready," said the Spaniard.
"I'm not thinking about the overall victory but, obviously, if the chance is there..."
Astana's Fabio Aru and FDJ's Thibaut Pinot will also contest the Criterium, but Movistar's Quintana is not competing in the race.

Summary: Alberto Contador says he will pick two rivals for the Criterium du Dauphine in the race to win the Criterium du Dauphine.

Answer: 0


The red sand boa is a protected species, and looks like it has two heads, because its tail is shaped like its head to help it defend itself.
The snake is prized on the black market because many believe it brings good luck or has medicinal qualities.
Police in Bangalore arrested four people trying to sell the protected creature for $1,500 (Â£1,100).
Police said plain clothes officers had organised a sting by pretending to be interested buyers.
The market for the "two-headed" red sand boas was "basically another form of cheating", PS Harsha, the local deputy commissioner of police, said.
"It is invariably used to cheat people who have some belief that it will act as good luck charm."
Sharath Babu, a wildlife warden in Bangalore's Urban district, said "it is a fallacy that it has two heads... the head and tail of the snake look alike, so if anyone tries to catch it, it strikes from the other end which is the head".
Thanks to the superstition that the red sand boa will bring its owner treasure, demand for the snake is high, with people even hiring them out for ceremonies, Mr Babu told BBC Hindi.
"It is even used for conducting rituals that would bring in rain or money. It is even believed that the heavier the snake, the more riches it will bring. So, the black market dealers shove ball bearings and other objects into the snakes. These animals die a very painful death."
Luckily for this particular snake, though, it was rescued - and has now been set free in the Bannerghatta Biological Park on the outskirts of Bangalore.

Summary: Police say they have seized a rare snake, known as a "two-headed" red sand boa, from illegal smugglers.

Answer: 1


The red sand boa is a protected species, and looks like it has two heads, because its tail is shaped like its head to help it defend itself.
The snake is prized on the black market because many believe it brings good luck or has medicinal qualities.
Police in Bangalore arrested four people trying to sell the protected creature for $1,500 (Â£1,100).
Police said plain clothes officers had organised a sting by pretending to be interested buyers.
The market for the "two-headed" red sand boas was "basically another form of cheating", PS Harsha, the local deputy commissioner of police, said.
"It is invariably used to cheat people who have some belief that it will act as good luck charm."
Sharath Babu, a wildlife warden in Bangalore's Urban district, said "it is a fallacy that it has two heads... the head and tail of the snake look alike, so if anyone tries to catch it, it strikes from the other end which is the head".
Thanks to the superstition that the red sand boa will bring its owner treasure, demand for the snake is high, with people even hiring them out for ceremonies, Mr Babu told BBC Hindi.
"It is even used for conducting rituals that would bring in rain or money. It is even believed that the heavier the snake, the more riches it will bring. So, the black market dealers shove ball bearings and other objects into the snakes. These animals die a very painful death."
Luckily for this particular snake, though, it was rescued - and has now been set free in the Bannerghatta Biological Park on the outskirts of Bangalore.

Summary: Police in the southern Indian city of Bangalore have arrested a snake that they believe is a "good luck charm".

Answer: 0


Supporters and colleagues gathered outside the Alvorada Palace to bid her farewell, some handing her flowers.
Ms Rousseff was dismissed last week after the Senate found her guilty of manipulating the budget.
She denies wrongdoing and has dismissed her impeachment as a "coup d'etat".
Brazilian television showed Ms Rousseff walking out of the presidential residence surrounded by former ministers and Congressmen from her Workers' Party.
How will history look back on impeachment?
Profile: Dilma Rousseff
Supporter Cecilia Monteir, 56, said she was "very, very sad, feeling like the country will be left a bit orphaned".
More supporters awaited Ms Rousseff as she arrived at an airport to board a plane to the southern city of Porto Alegre, her adopted hometown. On her arrival she was greeted by more well-wishers.
Hours after the impeachment vote, Ms Rousseff's vice-president Michel Temer, was sworn in, ending 13 years in power for the left-wing Workers' Party.
He will serve out Ms Rousseff's term until 1 January 2019.
Ms Rousseff has filed an appeal at the Supreme Court against the Senate's decision but correspondents say it has very little chance of succeeding.

Summary: Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff has arrived in the capital, Brasilia, after being impeached by the Senate for manipulating the country's budget.

Answer: 0


Supporters and colleagues gathered outside the Alvorada Palace to bid her farewell, some handing her flowers.
Ms Rousseff was dismissed last week after the Senate found her guilty of manipulating the budget.
She denies wrongdoing and has dismissed her impeachment as a "coup d'etat".
Brazilian television showed Ms Rousseff walking out of the presidential residence surrounded by former ministers and Congressmen from her Workers' Party.
How will history look back on impeachment?
Profile: Dilma Rousseff
Supporter Cecilia Monteir, 56, said she was "very, very sad, feeling like the country will be left a bit orphaned".
More supporters awaited Ms Rousseff as she arrived at an airport to board a plane to the southern city of Porto Alegre, her adopted hometown. On her arrival she was greeted by more well-wishers.
Hours after the impeachment vote, Ms Rousseff's vice-president Michel Temer, was sworn in, ending 13 years in power for the left-wing Workers' Party.
He will serve out Ms Rousseff's term until 1 January 2019.
Ms Rousseff has filed an appeal at the Supreme Court against the Senate's decision but correspondents say it has very little chance of succeeding.

Summary: Former president Dilma Rousseff has left her official residence for the last time following her impeachment and removal from office.

Answer: 1


Boyle struck the only goal in the 18th minute after lobbing over Graham Doyle following a moment of hesitancy in the Wexford defence.
Derry needed fine saves from Gerard Doherty to stay ahead as the keeper denied Conor O'Keeffe and Paul Murphy.
Josh Daniels also headed a Gary Delaney effort off the line in the second half as Derry endured some nervous moments.
Derry did go close to adding to their lead in the final five minutes of the game as Aaron McEneff clipped the Wexford crossbar with a long-range shot and substitute Jordan Allan fired just wide.
Kenny Shiels' side suffered a blow in the second half as goalscorer Boyle was forced off by an apparent hamstring injury.
With leaders Dundalk beating St Patrick's Athletics 2-0, the Candystripes remain nine points off the pace but they have edged to within six points of second-placed Cork City who were held to a 0-0 draw by Shamrock Rovers in Dublin.

Summary: Derry City's hopes of a first win in four games suffered a blow as they were held to a goalless draw by Wexford.

Answer: 0


Boyle struck the only goal in the 18th minute after lobbing over Graham Doyle following a moment of hesitancy in the Wexford defence.
Derry needed fine saves from Gerard Doherty to stay ahead as the keeper denied Conor O'Keeffe and Paul Murphy.
Josh Daniels also headed a Gary Delaney effort off the line in the second half as Derry endured some nervous moments.
Derry did go close to adding to their lead in the final five minutes of the game as Aaron McEneff clipped the Wexford crossbar with a long-range shot and substitute Jordan Allan fired just wide.
Kenny Shiels' side suffered a blow in the second half as goalscorer Boyle was forced off by an apparent hamstring injury.
With leaders Dundalk beating St Patrick's Athletics 2-0, the Candystripes remain nine points off the pace but they have edged to within six points of second-placed Cork City who were held to a 0-0 draw by Shamrock Rovers in Dublin.

Summary: Boyle's early goal proved enough to give Derry victory over Wexford.

Answer: 1


Llanberis Mountain Rescue was called out a record 43 times to Wales and England's highest peak in August - an increase it called "unsustainable".
Visit Wales' recent year of adventure campaign encouraged to visitors to "Find Your Epic".
The tourism body said the campaign was "an opportunity to promote safety".
Llanberis Mountain Rescue said many of those tackling the peak were unprepared in terms of knowledge and equipment, with many needing assistance.
Chairman of the team of volunteers, Rob Johnson, said "serious consideration" needed to be given to how the 3,560 ft (1,085m) peak was managed.
He said the drive to attract tourists contributed to an "unsustainable" rise in callouts - from 34 in August 2015 to 43 in August 2016.
The organisation relies on donations and about 1,000 volunteer hours were spent attending incidents - including an RAF helicopter crash landing.
He said many of the callouts were preventable and, with the right knowledge and equipment, they could have been avoided.
"We've attended a variety of incidents this summer but the most common have been lower-leg injuries, people too tired to continue and people crag-fast on Crib Goch," said Mr Johnson.
"It has been a massive commitment from a small group of volunteers."
Visit Wales, the Welsh Government's tourism team, said it encouraged visitors to participate in activities with accredited providers.
A spokeswoman added: "The year of adventure is also an opportunity to promote safety in the great outdoors.
"Mountain rescue teams do great work in helping people, but as the adventure sector continues to grow there is no doubt rescue teams will need the help of educators in minimising the risk of people needing their assistance.
"That's why we will continue to work with partners and the industry so that people can enjoy Wales and be safe."

Summary: A drive to attract tourists has led to an increase in ill-equipped walkers and climbers becoming stranded on England's highest peak, rescuers have claimed.

Answer: 1


Llanberis Mountain Rescue was called out a record 43 times to Wales and England's highest peak in August - an increase it called "unsustainable".
Visit Wales' recent year of adventure campaign encouraged to visitors to "Find Your Epic".
The tourism body said the campaign was "an opportunity to promote safety".
Llanberis Mountain Rescue said many of those tackling the peak were unprepared in terms of knowledge and equipment, with many needing assistance.
Chairman of the team of volunteers, Rob Johnson, said "serious consideration" needed to be given to how the 3,560 ft (1,085m) peak was managed.
He said the drive to attract tourists contributed to an "unsustainable" rise in callouts - from 34 in August 2015 to 43 in August 2016.
The organisation relies on donations and about 1,000 volunteer hours were spent attending incidents - including an RAF helicopter crash landing.
He said many of the callouts were preventable and, with the right knowledge and equipment, they could have been avoided.
"We've attended a variety of incidents this summer but the most common have been lower-leg injuries, people too tired to continue and people crag-fast on Crib Goch," said Mr Johnson.
"It has been a massive commitment from a small group of volunteers."
Visit Wales, the Welsh Government's tourism team, said it encouraged visitors to participate in activities with accredited providers.
A spokeswoman added: "The year of adventure is also an opportunity to promote safety in the great outdoors.
"Mountain rescue teams do great work in helping people, but as the adventure sector continues to grow there is no doubt rescue teams will need the help of educators in minimising the risk of people needing their assistance.
"That's why we will continue to work with partners and the industry so that people can enjoy Wales and be safe."

Summary: A mountain rescue organisation has said it is "serious concern" over the number of callouts to Crib Goch last year.

Answer: 0


The A&E unit at Telford's Princess Royal Hospital could be downgraded, leaving the Royal Shrewsbury as the only hospital in the county to offer emergency and critical care.
Women and children's services would also be moved to Shrewsbury, despite a Â£28m centre opening in Telford in 2014.
The proposals have been made by the NHS 'Future Fit' board.
More updates on this and other stories in Shropshire
Urgent care centres would be based at both sites, which Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust said would attend to the majority of patients who are currently seen at A&E.
These "preferred options" will be considered by Telford and Wrekin Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) and Shropshire CCG, who will formally decide if a public consultation can begin.
The board is also recommending three other options be put forward for public consultation.
No formal decisions will be made until at least Summer 2017, Telford and Wrekin CCG said.
The NHS Future Fit programme was launched in 2014 to review the health system across Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin and mid-Wales and is set to finish in spring 2017.
Princess Royal Hospital in Telford:
Royal Shrewsbury Hospital:
There has been criticism of the plans to move women's and children's services from Telford.
Shaun Davies, leader of Telford & Wrekin Council, described the announcement as "a total farce that is being railroaded through" and said he opposed the idea of downgrading Telford's A&E department.
"If there is to be only one, then it makes sense from a financial and clinical perspective to locate it at Princess Royal Hospital; in the area where there is a growing population."

Summary: Plans to move emergency care services to a Shropshire hospital have been revealed.

Answer: 0


The A&E unit at Telford's Princess Royal Hospital could be downgraded, leaving the Royal Shrewsbury as the only hospital in the county to offer emergency and critical care.
Women and children's services would also be moved to Shrewsbury, despite a Â£28m centre opening in Telford in 2014.
The proposals have been made by the NHS 'Future Fit' board.
More updates on this and other stories in Shropshire
Urgent care centres would be based at both sites, which Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust said would attend to the majority of patients who are currently seen at A&E.
These "preferred options" will be considered by Telford and Wrekin Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) and Shropshire CCG, who will formally decide if a public consultation can begin.
The board is also recommending three other options be put forward for public consultation.
No formal decisions will be made until at least Summer 2017, Telford and Wrekin CCG said.
The NHS Future Fit programme was launched in 2014 to review the health system across Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin and mid-Wales and is set to finish in spring 2017.
Princess Royal Hospital in Telford:
Royal Shrewsbury Hospital:
There has been criticism of the plans to move women's and children's services from Telford.
Shaun Davies, leader of Telford & Wrekin Council, described the announcement as "a total farce that is being railroaded through" and said he opposed the idea of downgrading Telford's A&E department.
"If there is to be only one, then it makes sense from a financial and clinical perspective to locate it at Princess Royal Hospital; in the area where there is a growing population."

Summary: The county could have one emergency and critical care department under recommendations being put forward by NHS bosses.

Answer: 1


SSAFA said there were more than 3,000 calls to Forcesline from serving troops last year, up from 1,600 in 2014.
The service was set up at the Army's request after four recruits died at its Deepcut Barracks in Surrey.
SSAFA said the rise in the number of calls "although not a cause for panic, is reason for concern".
The charity's chief executive, Air Vice Marshal David Murray, said: "Those who serve in our armed forces are by their very nature resilient characters. They are then trained to be the most robust versions of themselves, so for some asking for help can be a real challenge.
"It is interesting that the service men and women who are contacting us are choosing to come to SSAFA, rather than their own chain of command, as the 'grin and bear it' attitude within the serving community remains strong."
He said it was "imperative" that the welfare of service personnel welfare remained a priority and troops did not feel they had to "deal with their issues on their own".
"They have been there when our country has needed them and we must be there when they need us," he said.
A Ministry of Defence spokesman said: "The government is absolutely committed to the wellbeing of our armed forces and provides a wide range of support both during and after service.
"We enshrined the armed forces covenant in law and have introduced a raft of measures designed to improve service life.
"The government works in close partnership with the service charitable sector on these issues and we value contributions such as this."
SSAFA, formerly known as the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association, has a network of 7,000 volunteers providing support for serving personnel as well as veterans.
Between 1995 and 2002, four Army recruits died from gunshot wounds in unexplained circumstances at Deepcut, sparking allegations of bullying and abuse.
The Army said all of the deaths were suicides but, in each case, the families disagreed.
A second inquest is taking place into the death of one of those recruits, Private Cheryl James, more than 20 years after her death.
Among other things, the coroner will consider accusations that there were "shortcomings" with barracks policies on sexual behaviour, supervision of young women, drugs, alcohol and accommodation.
In total, the SSAFA helpline received 21,983 requests for help in 2015, up 6% on the year before.

Summary: The number of calls to the Armed Forces Support Agency (SSAFA) has risen by more than a third in a year, the charity has said.

Answer: 0


SSAFA said there were more than 3,000 calls to Forcesline from serving troops last year, up from 1,600 in 2014.
The service was set up at the Army's request after four recruits died at its Deepcut Barracks in Surrey.
SSAFA said the rise in the number of calls "although not a cause for panic, is reason for concern".
The charity's chief executive, Air Vice Marshal David Murray, said: "Those who serve in our armed forces are by their very nature resilient characters. They are then trained to be the most robust versions of themselves, so for some asking for help can be a real challenge.
"It is interesting that the service men and women who are contacting us are choosing to come to SSAFA, rather than their own chain of command, as the 'grin and bear it' attitude within the serving community remains strong."
He said it was "imperative" that the welfare of service personnel welfare remained a priority and troops did not feel they had to "deal with their issues on their own".
"They have been there when our country has needed them and we must be there when they need us," he said.
A Ministry of Defence spokesman said: "The government is absolutely committed to the wellbeing of our armed forces and provides a wide range of support both during and after service.
"We enshrined the armed forces covenant in law and have introduced a raft of measures designed to improve service life.
"The government works in close partnership with the service charitable sector on these issues and we value contributions such as this."
SSAFA, formerly known as the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association, has a network of 7,000 volunteers providing support for serving personnel as well as veterans.
Between 1995 and 2002, four Army recruits died from gunshot wounds in unexplained circumstances at Deepcut, sparking allegations of bullying and abuse.
The Army said all of the deaths were suicides but, in each case, the families disagreed.
A second inquest is taking place into the death of one of those recruits, Private Cheryl James, more than 20 years after her death.
Among other things, the coroner will consider accusations that there were "shortcomings" with barracks policies on sexual behaviour, supervision of young women, drugs, alcohol and accommodation.
In total, the SSAFA helpline received 21,983 requests for help in 2015, up 6% on the year before.

Summary: A helpline has seen a nearly 90% increase in requests for help from serving military personnel, an armed forces charity has said.

Answer: 1


The French manager has yet to say whether he will sign a new contract to stay beyond this season, but believes the spirit he has created in 20 years at the club can live on without him.
"It's more natural for local players because they have been educated in Arsenal - players like Ramsey, Chamberlain," Wenger said.
"They have to take charge."
He added: "They should lead and take responsibility to say 'yes, that is how we want to behave, this is how we want to play, let's go together'.
"If they didn't want it, that would be a huge disappointment."
Sunday's FA Cup semi-final against Manchester City (kick-off 15:00 BST), which could be Wenger's last trip to Wembley Stadium, is also his 11th semi-final as Arsenal manager. It is the Gunners' last chance of a trophy this season.
Wenger could field as many as five British players - Aaron Ramsey, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Theo Walcott, Kieran Gibbs and Rob Holding - but he says a player's nationality is less important to him than "players who integrate the values of the club" and are "ready to defend these values".
"A lot is said about my future but my future is more important in the value and spirit of what we have built in 20 years than my own person," added the 67-year-old Frenchman.
In the opposite dugout, Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has happy memories of Wembley as both a player and a manager with Barcelona.
The Spaniard was a member of the Barca side who won the European Cup at the ground in 1992 and he was manager when the side beat Manchester United 3-1 in the Champions League final in 2011.
Guardiola said: "Wembley in my life has been so important in terms of football. We were able to win the first Champions League when Ronald Koeman made a fantastic goal against the Sampdoria of Roberto Mancini.
"The second one, we beat one of the best teams in the world in Manchester United at Wembley and, especially the way we played, always I will remember in my heart.
"Wembley is an important part of my life. Going back there will always be special."

Summary: Wenger has challenged Arsenal's local players to take responsibility for the club's future.

Answer: 1


The French manager has yet to say whether he will sign a new contract to stay beyond this season, but believes the spirit he has created in 20 years at the club can live on without him.
"It's more natural for local players because they have been educated in Arsenal - players like Ramsey, Chamberlain," Wenger said.
"They have to take charge."
He added: "They should lead and take responsibility to say 'yes, that is how we want to behave, this is how we want to play, let's go together'.
"If they didn't want it, that would be a huge disappointment."
Sunday's FA Cup semi-final against Manchester City (kick-off 15:00 BST), which could be Wenger's last trip to Wembley Stadium, is also his 11th semi-final as Arsenal manager. It is the Gunners' last chance of a trophy this season.
Wenger could field as many as five British players - Aaron Ramsey, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Theo Walcott, Kieran Gibbs and Rob Holding - but he says a player's nationality is less important to him than "players who integrate the values of the club" and are "ready to defend these values".
"A lot is said about my future but my future is more important in the value and spirit of what we have built in 20 years than my own person," added the 67-year-old Frenchman.
In the opposite dugout, Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has happy memories of Wembley as both a player and a manager with Barcelona.
The Spaniard was a member of the Barca side who won the European Cup at the ground in 1992 and he was manager when the side beat Manchester United 3-1 in the Champions League final in 2011.
Guardiola said: "Wembley in my life has been so important in terms of football. We were able to win the first Champions League when Ronald Koeman made a fantastic goal against the Sampdoria of Roberto Mancini.
"The second one, we beat one of the best teams in the world in Manchester United at Wembley and, especially the way we played, always I will remember in my heart.
"Wembley is an important part of my life. Going back there will always be special."

Summary: Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger says players like Aaron Ramsey, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain should take responsibility for the club's future.

Answer: 0


A spokesman said under new proposals, no-one younger than 18 or older than 75 would be allowed to climb.
The ministry of tourism could also insist that all climbers have previous mountaineering experience.
Nepal makes millions of dollars every year from the Everest industry but has been criticised for poor management.
In 2014, the mountain was closed after 16 Sherpas (guides) died in an accident.
And earlier this year, the climbing season was called off after a massive earthquake triggered an avalanche that killed 18 climbers.
Over the past decade many people have sought to establish world records on the world's highest mountain, a practice the government wants to discourage.
The youngest person to climb Mount Everest was 13 and the oldest 80.
"We don't think we should issue permits to people who cannot see or walk or who don't have arms," tourism department chief Govinda Karki told AFP news agency.
"Climbing Everest is not a joke... it is not a matter of discrimination. How can you climb without legs? Someone will have to carry you up. We want to make the mountains safer for everyone, so we have to insist on some rules."
Mr Karki also said the government was considering only issuing permits to climbers who have already scaled another mountain above 6,500m (21,300ft).
Over the years, Everest has attracted many climbers aiming to overcome their disabilities.
Last week, Japanese mountaineer Nobukazu Kuriki, who had previously lost nine fingers to frostbite, abandoned his attempt to climb the mountain.
In 2006, New Zealander Mark Inglis, who had lost both legs to frostbite, became the first double amputee to reach the 8,848m (29,029ft) summit.
Five years earlier, US climber Erik Weihenmayer became the first blind person to reach the top of Everest.

Summary: The Nepalese government is considering banning anyone deemed too young or too old or with a severe disability from climbing Mount Everest.

Answer: 1


A spokesman said under new proposals, no-one younger than 18 or older than 75 would be allowed to climb.
The ministry of tourism could also insist that all climbers have previous mountaineering experience.
Nepal makes millions of dollars every year from the Everest industry but has been criticised for poor management.
In 2014, the mountain was closed after 16 Sherpas (guides) died in an accident.
And earlier this year, the climbing season was called off after a massive earthquake triggered an avalanche that killed 18 climbers.
Over the past decade many people have sought to establish world records on the world's highest mountain, a practice the government wants to discourage.
The youngest person to climb Mount Everest was 13 and the oldest 80.
"We don't think we should issue permits to people who cannot see or walk or who don't have arms," tourism department chief Govinda Karki told AFP news agency.
"Climbing Everest is not a joke... it is not a matter of discrimination. How can you climb without legs? Someone will have to carry you up. We want to make the mountains safer for everyone, so we have to insist on some rules."
Mr Karki also said the government was considering only issuing permits to climbers who have already scaled another mountain above 6,500m (21,300ft).
Over the years, Everest has attracted many climbers aiming to overcome their disabilities.
Last week, Japanese mountaineer Nobukazu Kuriki, who had previously lost nine fingers to frostbite, abandoned his attempt to climb the mountain.
In 2006, New Zealander Mark Inglis, who had lost both legs to frostbite, became the first double amputee to reach the 8,848m (29,029ft) summit.
Five years earlier, US climber Erik Weihenmayer became the first blind person to reach the top of Everest.

Summary: Nepal's tourism department has said it will not issue permits to climbers who have previously scaled Mount Everest.

Answer: 0


Storms smashed a hole in the sea wall alongside the line above the seafront in Dawlish, south Devon in 2014.
The railway line took two months to repair at an estimated cost of £1bn to the local economy.
Network Rail is consulting with Devon and Cornwall residents about the plans.
They include strengthening defences and cliffs, as well and building breakwaters to protect the line.
More on the coastal rail protection work, and other Devon and Cornwall news
Cliffs next to the line would be stabilised and reshaped so they are not as steep under the plans.
A total of £270m is allocated for spending on priority areas including around Dawlish between 2019 and 2024.
The line connects Devon and Cornwall with the rest of the UK.

Summary: Protecting a coastal railway track by the sea and cliffs is being planned by Network Rail.

Answer: 1


Storms smashed a hole in the sea wall alongside the line above the seafront in Dawlish, south Devon in 2014.
The railway line took two months to repair at an estimated cost of £1bn to the local economy.
Network Rail is consulting with Devon and Cornwall residents about the plans.
They include strengthening defences and cliffs, as well and building breakwaters to protect the line.
More on the coastal rail protection work, and other Devon and Cornwall news
Cliffs next to the line would be stabilised and reshaped so they are not as steep under the plans.
A total of £270m is allocated for spending on priority areas including around Dawlish between 2019 and 2024.
The line connects Devon and Cornwall with the rest of the UK.

Summary: Plans to protect a railway line from flooding have been unveiled by Network Rail.

Answer: 0


Italian artist and sculptor Maurizio Cattelan created the fully functional 18-carat gold lavatory, which he has titled America.
The, ahem, interactive exhibit has been installed in one of the Guggenheim's public bathrooms, reports the New Yorker.
The Fifth Avenue museum describes the piece as "a bold, irreverent work".
The lavatory replaced one of the Guggenheim's porcelain toilets in a one-person, unisex restroom.
Visitors who pay museum admission will be able to use it as they wish.
The Guggenheim said the piece is "ultimately reminding us of the inescapable physical realities of our shared humanity".
The exhibit is aimed at "making available to the public an extravagant luxury product seemingly intended for the 1 percent", according to the museum.
"Its participatory nature, in which viewers are invited to make use of the fixture individually and privately, allows for an experience of unprecedented intimacy with a work of art," said the Guggenheim.
Cattelan, a Milan-based artist and a truck driver's son, hinted earlier this year that his creation had been inspired by economic inequality.
The exhibit has also drawn comparisons with Marcel Duchamp's avant-garde "Fountain", the porcelain urinal he exhibited in New York in 1917, causing a sensation in the art world.
Cattelan, 55, is known for his provocative sculptures, including La Nona Ora (The Ninth Hour), which depicted Pope John Paul II floored by a meteorite.

Summary: A "luxury" porcelain urinal has been installed in a public toilet at the Guggenheim Museum in New York.

Answer: 0


Italian artist and sculptor Maurizio Cattelan created the fully functional 18-carat gold lavatory, which he has titled America.
The, ahem, interactive exhibit has been installed in one of the Guggenheim's public bathrooms, reports the New Yorker.
The Fifth Avenue museum describes the piece as "a bold, irreverent work".
The lavatory replaced one of the Guggenheim's porcelain toilets in a one-person, unisex restroom.
Visitors who pay museum admission will be able to use it as they wish.
The Guggenheim said the piece is "ultimately reminding us of the inescapable physical realities of our shared humanity".
The exhibit is aimed at "making available to the public an extravagant luxury product seemingly intended for the 1 percent", according to the museum.
"Its participatory nature, in which viewers are invited to make use of the fixture individually and privately, allows for an experience of unprecedented intimacy with a work of art," said the Guggenheim.
Cattelan, a Milan-based artist and a truck driver's son, hinted earlier this year that his creation had been inspired by economic inequality.
The exhibit has also drawn comparisons with Marcel Duchamp's avant-garde "Fountain", the porcelain urinal he exhibited in New York in 1917, causing a sensation in the art world.
Cattelan, 55, is known for his provocative sculptures, including La Nona Ora (The Ninth Hour), which depicted Pope John Paul II floored by a meteorite.

Summary: Members of the public are being invited to use a solid gold lavatory at Guggenheim museum.

Answer: 1


Jon Schueler, who died in New York in 1992 at the age of 75, created many of his pieces from a studio in Mallaig in the Highlands.
He was inspired by views of the Sound of Sleat and also of Skye, which lies across the stretch of sea.
An arts symposium and exhibition at the college runs from Friday to Sunday.
Called An Linne: Echoes, Reflections and Transfigurations, the events mark the centenary of the artist's birth in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in 1916.
The painter, who served as a navigator on US bombers flown out of England during World War Two, moved to Mallaig in 1957 and he continued to visit and work in the village in the north-west Highlands throughout his career.
Many of his pieces were influenced by the changing weather on the west coast and the effect the conditions had on the sea.
Magda Salvesen, curator of the Jon Schueler Estate, said: "The Sound of Sleat became to Schueler a place of experience, memory and mood.
"The specificity of this body of water fed Schueler's paintings - their imagery enlarged through layers of memory.
"How appropriate and challenging that the symposium celebrating the artist's centenary should be held on Skye, an island seen through changing weather from his studio in Mallaig."
The celebration at SMO - Scotland's National Centre for Gaelic Language and Culture, and which offers a Jon Schueler Residency scholarship - includes talks on Schueler's life and work and an exhibition of selected pieces from his time in Mallaig.
Donnie Munro, director of development, fundraising and the arts at SMO, described the artist as having a "profoundly deep experiential affinity with the Sound of Sleat".
He said this connection led Schueler to create some of his most celebrated works.

Summary: A new exhibition is to be held at the Scottish College of Gaelic Language and Culture (SMMO) in Glasgow.

Answer: 0


Jon Schueler, who died in New York in 1992 at the age of 75, created many of his pieces from a studio in Mallaig in the Highlands.
He was inspired by views of the Sound of Sleat and also of Skye, which lies across the stretch of sea.
An arts symposium and exhibition at the college runs from Friday to Sunday.
Called An Linne: Echoes, Reflections and Transfigurations, the events mark the centenary of the artist's birth in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in 1916.
The painter, who served as a navigator on US bombers flown out of England during World War Two, moved to Mallaig in 1957 and he continued to visit and work in the village in the north-west Highlands throughout his career.
Many of his pieces were influenced by the changing weather on the west coast and the effect the conditions had on the sea.
Magda Salvesen, curator of the Jon Schueler Estate, said: "The Sound of Sleat became to Schueler a place of experience, memory and mood.
"The specificity of this body of water fed Schueler's paintings - their imagery enlarged through layers of memory.
"How appropriate and challenging that the symposium celebrating the artist's centenary should be held on Skye, an island seen through changing weather from his studio in Mallaig."
The celebration at SMO - Scotland's National Centre for Gaelic Language and Culture, and which offers a Jon Schueler Residency scholarship - includes talks on Schueler's life and work and an exhibition of selected pieces from his time in Mallaig.
Donnie Munro, director of development, fundraising and the arts at SMO, described the artist as having a "profoundly deep experiential affinity with the Sound of Sleat".
He said this connection led Schueler to create some of his most celebrated works.

Summary: The life and work of a painter is being celebrated at a college on Skye (specifically SMO).

Answer: 1


The London-based telecoms provider said that it alerted police after carrying out a data security review.
However, a spokeswoman stressed that it had seen no evidence that the suspects had been involved with a high-profile cyber-breach last October.
Nearly 157,000 of TalkTalk customers' details, including bank account numbers, were stolen in the breach.
The unnamed suspects do not work for TalkTalk directly but are instead employed by Wipro, a local call centre provider, in Kolkata (Calcutta).
"Following the October 2015 cyber-attack, we have been conducting a forensic review to ensure that all aspects of our security are as robust as possible - including that of our suppliers," the company said.
"Acting on information supplied by TalkTalk, the local police have arrested three individuals who have breached our policies and the terms of our contract with Wipro. We are also reviewing our relationship with Wipro.
"We are determined to identify and deal effectively with these issues and we will continue to devote significant resource to keeping our customers' data safe."
News of the arrests was first reported by Channel 4 News.
The Indian company has said it has a "zero tolerance" policy on data theft.
"Wipro is working closely with the customer in the investigation and will continue to extend its full co-operation to the investigating authorities," it said.
"We are unable to comment on the matter that is currently under investigation."

Summary: Three people have been arrested in India over the theft of details of more than 150,000 TalkTalk customers.

Answer: 0


The London-based telecoms provider said that it alerted police after carrying out a data security review.
However, a spokeswoman stressed that it had seen no evidence that the suspects had been involved with a high-profile cyber-breach last October.
Nearly 157,000 of TalkTalk customers' details, including bank account numbers, were stolen in the breach.
The unnamed suspects do not work for TalkTalk directly but are instead employed by Wipro, a local call centre provider, in Kolkata (Calcutta).
"Following the October 2015 cyber-attack, we have been conducting a forensic review to ensure that all aspects of our security are as robust as possible - including that of our suppliers," the company said.
"Acting on information supplied by TalkTalk, the local police have arrested three individuals who have breached our policies and the terms of our contract with Wipro. We are also reviewing our relationship with Wipro.
"We are determined to identify and deal effectively with these issues and we will continue to devote significant resource to keeping our customers' data safe."
News of the arrests was first reported by Channel 4 News.
The Indian company has said it has a "zero tolerance" policy on data theft.
"Wipro is working closely with the customer in the investigation and will continue to extend its full co-operation to the investigating authorities," it said.
"We are unable to comment on the matter that is currently under investigation."

Summary: TalkTalk has confirmed that three of its Kolkata-based call centre workers have been arrested.

Answer: 1


More places will also be made available at all of Scotland's teacher education universities.
The increase of 60 primary and 200 secondary student teacher places will bring the total intake next year to 3,490.
The government said it was the fifth consecutive annual increase.
A campaign was launched in September to try to encourage more people to enter the teaching profession in Scotland.
The Scottish government's #inspiringteachers campaign is focusing on science, technology, engineering and maths.
Ministers are also asking the new Strategic Board for Teacher Education to consider whether further actions are needed "to make sure we have the right numbers of teachers in our schools".
In September, the leaders of seven councils called for a national taskforce to be set up to help deal with teacher recruitment problems.
They made the call at a summit on tackling teacher shortages in northern and rural parts of Scotland.
Student teacher places next year:
• 1,230 post-graduate primary places - 60 more than last year's target
• 710 undergraduate primary places
• 1,350 secondary places - up by 185 on last year's target
• 200 undergraduate secondary places - 15 more than last year's target
Education Secretary Angela Constance said: "We want to make sure we have the right number of skilled teachers in our schools to help all of our young people to succeed.
"That's why we worked with local authorities to maintain teacher numbers this year and aim to do the same again next year, with a further £51m funding.
"And it's why we are increasing student places for the fifth year in a row, targeting them at areas where they are needed most such as Aberdeen and Highlands and Islands universities.
"We have upped last year's student teacher targets for science, technology, engineering and maths and we know these will be challenging for the universities to meet.
"I will be asking the new Strategic Board for Teacher Education to look at our workforce planning, particularly in the secondary sector, to consider whether there is more we can do.
"We also launched a teacher recruitment campaign in September with a focus on the Stem subjects and we are working with the universities to maximise its impact."

Summary: The Scottish government has announced a record number of student teacher places for the next financial year.

Answer: 0


More places will also be made available at all of Scotland's teacher education universities.
The increase of 60 primary and 200 secondary student teacher places will bring the total intake next year to 3,490.
The government said it was the fifth consecutive annual increase.
A campaign was launched in September to try to encourage more people to enter the teaching profession in Scotland.
The Scottish government's #inspiringteachers campaign is focusing on science, technology, engineering and maths.
Ministers are also asking the new Strategic Board for Teacher Education to consider whether further actions are needed "to make sure we have the right numbers of teachers in our schools".
In September, the leaders of seven councils called for a national taskforce to be set up to help deal with teacher recruitment problems.
They made the call at a summit on tackling teacher shortages in northern and rural parts of Scotland.
Student teacher places next year:
• 1,230 post-graduate primary places - 60 more than last year's target
• 710 undergraduate primary places
• 1,350 secondary places - up by 185 on last year's target
• 200 undergraduate secondary places - 15 more than last year's target
Education Secretary Angela Constance said: "We want to make sure we have the right number of skilled teachers in our schools to help all of our young people to succeed.
"That's why we worked with local authorities to maintain teacher numbers this year and aim to do the same again next year, with a further £51m funding.
"And it's why we are increasing student places for the fifth year in a row, targeting them at areas where they are needed most such as Aberdeen and Highlands and Islands universities.
"We have upped last year's student teacher targets for science, technology, engineering and maths and we know these will be challenging for the universities to meet.
"I will be asking the new Strategic Board for Teacher Education to look at our workforce planning, particularly in the secondary sector, to consider whether there is more we can do.
"We also launched a teacher recruitment campaign in September with a focus on the Stem subjects and we are working with the universities to maximise its impact."

Summary: The Scottish government has announced that it is making more than £2m available to train an extra 260 teachers next year.

Answer: 1


The Manchester Evening News reported it related to a councillor who admitted making indecent images of children.
Mike Owen and two senior officers have been suspended following an external review of the case, a spokeswoman said.
Council leader Rishi Shori said the suspensions would allow the three to "focus on responding" to the case.
He said they were "a neutral act".
The council had commissioned the review by childcare expert Malcolm Newsam after it "received allegations that there were failures to act appropriately in following safeguarding procedures in respect of an individual case," he added.
Deputy chief executive Pat Jones-Greenhalgh will replace Mr Owen until the council's own investigation is concluded, the authority's spokeswoman said.

Summary: Three senior council officers have been suspended following allegations of failings in safeguarding procedures, Greater Manchester Council has said.

Answer: 0


The Manchester Evening News reported it related to a councillor who admitted making indecent images of children.
Mike Owen and two senior officers have been suspended following an external review of the case, a spokeswoman said.
Council leader Rishi Shori said the suspensions would allow the three to "focus on responding" to the case.
He said they were "a neutral act".
The council had commissioned the review by childcare expert Malcolm Newsam after it "received allegations that there were failures to act appropriately in following safeguarding procedures in respect of an individual case," he added.
Deputy chief executive Pat Jones-Greenhalgh will replace Mr Owen until the council's own investigation is concluded, the authority's spokeswoman said.

Summary: Mike Owen has been suspended over claims he and others failed to follow procedures in their handling of a safeguarding case.

Answer: 1


The 51-year-old had been negotiating a release from his contract following a rift with the board over his budget.
Hughes has been with the Highlanders since December 2013 and won the Scottish Cup last year, the club's first major honour.
"John will be remembered as a member of a great winning team," read a brief statement from Inverness CT.
Hughes had become increasingly frustrated at the loss of key squad members and spoke of his disappointment when an approach from Dundee United was blocked earlier this season.
Having previously managed at Falkirk, Hibernian, Hartlepool and Livingston, he replaced Terry Butcher at the Caledonian Stadium.
As well as lifting the Scottish Cup, Hughes steered Inverness to a third place finish in the Premiership last season, with this campaign opening with their first taste of European football.
In March 2014, Inverness reached the League Cup final, losing on penalties to Aberdeen.
The Inverness statement contained a message on behalf of Hughes, saying: "I will look back on my time in the Highlands with a genuine fondness and warm affection for the club, the area and the community.
"The welcome I received from the fans and the response I got from the players throughout my two-and-a-half years there will live long in the memory as will everything else we shared in some of the ground-breaking successes we all enjoyed together during that period.
"I can readily assure my successor that they will inherit an excellent group of players and to each and every one of them could I also say a huge thanks for making my time with them so successful and so memorable - I wish them and the club every success in the future."

Summary: Inverness Caledonian Thistle manager John Hughes has left the Scottish Premiership club.

Answer: 0


The 51-year-old had been negotiating a release from his contract following a rift with the board over his budget.
Hughes has been with the Highlanders since December 2013 and won the Scottish Cup last year, the club's first major honour.
"John will be remembered as a member of a great winning team," read a brief statement from Inverness CT.
Hughes had become increasingly frustrated at the loss of key squad members and spoke of his disappointment when an approach from Dundee United was blocked earlier this season.
Having previously managed at Falkirk, Hibernian, Hartlepool and Livingston, he replaced Terry Butcher at the Caledonian Stadium.
As well as lifting the Scottish Cup, Hughes steered Inverness to a third place finish in the Premiership last season, with this campaign opening with their first taste of European football.
In March 2014, Inverness reached the League Cup final, losing on penalties to Aberdeen.
The Inverness statement contained a message on behalf of Hughes, saying: "I will look back on my time in the Highlands with a genuine fondness and warm affection for the club, the area and the community.
"The welcome I received from the fans and the response I got from the players throughout my two-and-a-half years there will live long in the memory as will everything else we shared in some of the ground-breaking successes we all enjoyed together during that period.
"I can readily assure my successor that they will inherit an excellent group of players and to each and every one of them could I also say a huge thanks for making my time with them so successful and so memorable - I wish them and the club every success in the future."

Summary: Inverness have confirmed the departure of John Hughes.

Answer: 1


The review of 5,000 studies on golf and wellbeing found physical benefits increased with the player's age.
The study is part of the Gold and Health Project, which is led by the World Golf Foundation.
The project plans to look at gaps in the research such as golf's links to mental health and muscle strengthening.
Executive director of the Golf and Health project Dr Roger Hawkes said the aim had been to add some "scientific rigour" to statements made about golf and wellbeing.
"For a number of years we've felt we've underplayed the likely benefits of golf on peoples' health," he said.
"We already have a scoping review, outlining what we know already, and we're going to look at that research and the gaps in knowledge so that in five years time we will have really good evidence."
Having this academically firmed up through in-depth research is going to provide real, tangible resource
Lead researcher Dr Andrew Murray said: "Evidence suggests golfers live longer than non-golfers, enjoying improvements in cholesterol levels, body composition, wellness, self-esteem and self-worth.
"Given that the sport can be played by the very young to the very old, this demonstrates a wide variety of health benefits for people of all ages."
The study suggested playing golf could help players meet and exceed minimum government recommendations for moderate to vigorous physical activity.
It claimed that golfers walking 18 holes could cover four to eight miles, while those using an electric golf cart typically chalked up four miles.
Players burned a minimum of 500 calories over 18 holes, it said.
World Golf Foundation CEO Steve Mona said the Golf and Health Project was vital to the development of the sport.
"This project is something we can all get behind, as it is universally agreed that golf is good for you," he said.
"Having this academically firmed up through in-depth research is going to provide real, tangible resources that can be used by governments and politicians, professional tours, governing bodies, golf businesses, PGA Professionals and more - all to the sport's benefit."
The research was released to coincide with the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship in St Andrews this week.
For more information on getting into golf, take a look at the Get Inspired activity guide on the sport.

Summary: Golf might increase life expectancy and lead to better physical health, according to researchers.

Answer: 1


The review of 5,000 studies on golf and wellbeing found physical benefits increased with the player's age.
The study is part of the Gold and Health Project, which is led by the World Golf Foundation.
The project plans to look at gaps in the research such as golf's links to mental health and muscle strengthening.
Executive director of the Golf and Health project Dr Roger Hawkes said the aim had been to add some "scientific rigour" to statements made about golf and wellbeing.
"For a number of years we've felt we've underplayed the likely benefits of golf on peoples' health," he said.
"We already have a scoping review, outlining what we know already, and we're going to look at that research and the gaps in knowledge so that in five years time we will have really good evidence."
Having this academically firmed up through in-depth research is going to provide real, tangible resource
Lead researcher Dr Andrew Murray said: "Evidence suggests golfers live longer than non-golfers, enjoying improvements in cholesterol levels, body composition, wellness, self-esteem and self-worth.
"Given that the sport can be played by the very young to the very old, this demonstrates a wide variety of health benefits for people of all ages."
The study suggested playing golf could help players meet and exceed minimum government recommendations for moderate to vigorous physical activity.
It claimed that golfers walking 18 holes could cover four to eight miles, while those using an electric golf cart typically chalked up four miles.
Players burned a minimum of 500 calories over 18 holes, it said.
World Golf Foundation CEO Steve Mona said the Golf and Health Project was vital to the development of the sport.
"This project is something we can all get behind, as it is universally agreed that golf is good for you," he said.
"Having this academically firmed up through in-depth research is going to provide real, tangible resources that can be used by governments and politicians, professional tours, governing bodies, golf businesses, PGA Professionals and more - all to the sport's benefit."
The research was released to coincide with the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship in St Andrews this week.
For more information on getting into golf, take a look at the Get Inspired activity guide on the sport.

Summary: Golfers are "underplayed" by the government and the sport's health experts, according to a new study.

Answer: 0


Burberry rose 2.81% on speculation that the company could be takeover target for a US private equity firm.
Mining shares were hit by a number of broker downgrades following recent falls in commodity prices.
At close of trade in London the FTSE 100  index of leading blue chip stocks was ahead by 77.95 points, or 1.12%, at 7015.36.
Anglo American shares fell 0.24% after Credit Suisse cut its rating on the company to "neutral" from "outperform".
Downgrades also hit BHP Billiton, which fell 1.09%. Credit Suisse cut its rating for BHP to "underperform" from "neutral", while Investec downgraded to "sell" from "hold".
On the currency markets, the pound fell 0.83% against the dollar to $1.4743 but was up 0.17% against the euro to ???1.3813.
Sterling was weakened by the latest UK trade figures, which showed the trade deficit widening by more than expected in February.
The Bank of England kept UK interest rates on hold at 0.5% - as expected - following its latest meeting.

Summary: (Close): Shares in Burberry and Anglo American were among the biggest fallers on the FTSE 100 on Wednesday.

Answer: 0


Burberry rose 2.81% on speculation that the company could be takeover target for a US private equity firm.
Mining shares were hit by a number of broker downgrades following recent falls in commodity prices.
At close of trade in London the FTSE 100  index of leading blue chip stocks was ahead by 77.95 points, or 1.12%, at 7015.36.
Anglo American shares fell 0.24% after Credit Suisse cut its rating on the company to "neutral" from "outperform".
Downgrades also hit BHP Billiton, which fell 1.09%. Credit Suisse cut its rating for BHP to "underperform" from "neutral", while Investec downgraded to "sell" from "hold".
On the currency markets, the pound fell 0.83% against the dollar to $1.4743 but was up 0.17% against the euro to ???1.3813.
Sterling was weakened by the latest UK trade figures, which showed the trade deficit widening by more than expected in February.
The Bank of England kept UK interest rates on hold at 0.5% - as expected - following its latest meeting.

Summary: (Close): Burberry rose following speculation that it could be a bid target.

Answer: 1


Tareck el-Aissami was described by the US treasury as a drug "kingpin" who worked with traffickers in Mexico and Colombia to ship drugs to America.
Hitting back, he accused the US of "defamatory aggression".
Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro demanded a public apology from the US for sanctioning his new deputy.
The sanctions freeze Mr Aissami's assets in the US and bar him from entering the country.
He is seen as a powerful figure within the governing party and has been entrusted by Mr Maduro with key powers normally held by the president, such as determining ministerial budgets and expropriating private companies.
The US treasury accuses him of being in the pay of convicted Venezuelan drug lord Walid Makled for protecting drug shipments.
"They'll never be able to defeat our unbreakable resolution to be free forever," Mr Aissami said.
Sanctions were also imposed on wealthy Venezuelan businessman Samark Lopez, described as Mr Aissami's "primary frontman".
Mr Lopez released a statement saying he had not trafficked drugs.
Vice-President Aissami is the highest-ranking Venezuelan official ever to be sanctioned by the US, which has not exchanged ambassadors with the country since 2010.
US counter-narcotics experts have long said that large amounts of cocaine transit from Colombia through Venezuela on to Europe and the US.

Summary: The Venezuelan Vice-President, who was accused of working with drug traffickers, has been suspended by the US.

Answer: 0


Tareck el-Aissami was described by the US treasury as a drug "kingpin" who worked with traffickers in Mexico and Colombia to ship drugs to America.
Hitting back, he accused the US of "defamatory aggression".
Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro demanded a public apology from the US for sanctioning his new deputy.
The sanctions freeze Mr Aissami's assets in the US and bar him from entering the country.
He is seen as a powerful figure within the governing party and has been entrusted by Mr Maduro with key powers normally held by the president, such as determining ministerial budgets and expropriating private companies.
The US treasury accuses him of being in the pay of convicted Venezuelan drug lord Walid Makled for protecting drug shipments.
"They'll never be able to defeat our unbreakable resolution to be free forever," Mr Aissami said.
Sanctions were also imposed on wealthy Venezuelan businessman Samark Lopez, described as Mr Aissami's "primary frontman".
Mr Lopez released a statement saying he had not trafficked drugs.
Vice-President Aissami is the highest-ranking Venezuelan official ever to be sanctioned by the US, which has not exchanged ambassadors with the country since 2010.
US counter-narcotics experts have long said that large amounts of cocaine transit from Colombia through Venezuela on to Europe and the US.

Summary: The vice-president of Venezuela has accused the US of aggression after it slapped sanctions on him for allegedly trafficking drugs.

Answer: 1


Land and Housing Minister Anna Tibaijuka had not shown "due diligence" when she took the money, he said.
Ms Tibaijuka, a former UN official, denies any wrongdoing.
She is a high-profile casualty in a corruption scandal that has rocked Tanzania's government and energy firms, straining relations with donors.
On 17 December, Attorney-General Frederick Werema resigned after MPs accused him of authorising the fraudulent transfer of about $120m to an energy firm.
He denied the allegation, but said he was stepping down because the controversy had "disrupted the country's political atmosphere".
Mr Kikwete, in a televised address, said the government was still investigating allegations of impropriety against Energy and Minerals Minister Sospeter Muhongo and his permanent secretary Eliakim Maswi.
The president's office later said that Mr Maswi had been suspended, pending the outcome of the probe.
Ms Tibaijuka rejected parliament's call for her resignation, saying the $1m was a donation for a school where she serves as the main fundraiser.
She accepted it in good faith and presented it to the school, she said.
However, Mr  Kikwete said he had dismissed her because "one of the biggest questions raised is why this money was not paid directly to the school and was instead deposited in a personal bank account in her name," Reuters news agency quotes him as saying.
Ms Tibaijuka was the executive director of the United Nations Human Settlements Programme, before she became an MP and government minister in 2010.
Tanzania's parliament, which is dominated by the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party, has been putting pressure on Mr Kikwete to sack top officials accused of siphoning government money in collusion with businessmen linked to the energy sector.
An investigation by a parliamentary watchdog committee found that about $120m had been taken from an escrow account, paid to an energy firm and then given to various government ministers.
A group of 12 donors - including Japan, the UK, the World Bank and the African Development Bank - decided in October to withhold about $490m until the government took action over the alleged corruption.
Mr Kikwete took office in 2005 with a promise to tackle corruption in government.

Summary: Kikwete has fired a senior government minister accused of wrongly taking $1m.

Answer: 1


Land and Housing Minister Anna Tibaijuka had not shown "due diligence" when she took the money, he said.
Ms Tibaijuka, a former UN official, denies any wrongdoing.
She is a high-profile casualty in a corruption scandal that has rocked Tanzania's government and energy firms, straining relations with donors.
On 17 December, Attorney-General Frederick Werema resigned after MPs accused him of authorising the fraudulent transfer of about $120m to an energy firm.
He denied the allegation, but said he was stepping down because the controversy had "disrupted the country's political atmosphere".
Mr Kikwete, in a televised address, said the government was still investigating allegations of impropriety against Energy and Minerals Minister Sospeter Muhongo and his permanent secretary Eliakim Maswi.
The president's office later said that Mr Maswi had been suspended, pending the outcome of the probe.
Ms Tibaijuka rejected parliament's call for her resignation, saying the $1m was a donation for a school where she serves as the main fundraiser.
She accepted it in good faith and presented it to the school, she said.
However, Mr  Kikwete said he had dismissed her because "one of the biggest questions raised is why this money was not paid directly to the school and was instead deposited in a personal bank account in her name," Reuters news agency quotes him as saying.
Ms Tibaijuka was the executive director of the United Nations Human Settlements Programme, before she became an MP and government minister in 2010.
Tanzania's parliament, which is dominated by the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party, has been putting pressure on Mr Kikwete to sack top officials accused of siphoning government money in collusion with businessmen linked to the energy sector.
An investigation by a parliamentary watchdog committee found that about $120m had been taken from an escrow account, paid to an energy firm and then given to various government ministers.
A group of 12 donors - including Japan, the UK, the World Bank and the African Development Bank - decided in October to withhold about $490m until the government took action over the alleged corruption.
Mr Kikwete took office in 2005 with a promise to tackle corruption in government.

Summary: Tanzania's President Joseph Kikwete has dismissed a minister accused of taking $1m (Â£1m) from a fund set up by a donor.

Answer: 0


The former double world champion, 23, missed the 2014 Commonwealth Games due to recurring trouble in her left knee.
She also underwent surgery on a long-standing shoulder problem but Sutton said the knee injury was still a cause for concern.
"Becky has had a few setbacks over the last week or so," he said.
"We looked like getting her back in the spring but there have been one or two little complications.
"I have no detailed report. That is kept between the doctors, medical team and her rehab team.
Media playback is not supported on this device
"They are doing a great job and she is getting the best treatment possible."
James aggravated the knee injury when she returned to training following a period of rest after a minor medical procedure.
The Abergavenny-born track cyclist won silver and bronze for Wales at the Commonwealth Games in 2010, but came to international prominence at the 2013 Track World Championships.
She won golds in the keirin and sprint and also picked up bronze medals in the team sprint and 500m time trial in Minsk.
James missed out on the London Olympics in 2012 after a season wrecked by injury and illness, but Australian Sutton has no doubt that success at Rio 2016 remains realistic.
"I am totally confident we will get her right for Rio," Sutton added.
"Another four or five weeks is really not going to matter. She has lost a lot of time but give us 12 months and a clean bill of health, then Becky will be knocking them over in Rio.
"We are talking about a girl that is one of the best on the world stage.
"If anyone is going to survive this and cope mentally, it will be Becky."

Summary: Becky James has suffered a setback in her recovery from a knee injury, says Sutton.

Answer: 1


The former double world champion, 23, missed the 2014 Commonwealth Games due to recurring trouble in her left knee.
She also underwent surgery on a long-standing shoulder problem but Sutton said the knee injury was still a cause for concern.
"Becky has had a few setbacks over the last week or so," he said.
"We looked like getting her back in the spring but there have been one or two little complications.
"I have no detailed report. That is kept between the doctors, medical team and her rehab team.
Media playback is not supported on this device
"They are doing a great job and she is getting the best treatment possible."
James aggravated the knee injury when she returned to training following a period of rest after a minor medical procedure.
The Abergavenny-born track cyclist won silver and bronze for Wales at the Commonwealth Games in 2010, but came to international prominence at the 2013 Track World Championships.
She won golds in the keirin and sprint and also picked up bronze medals in the team sprint and 500m time trial in Minsk.
James missed out on the London Olympics in 2012 after a season wrecked by injury and illness, but Australian Sutton has no doubt that success at Rio 2016 remains realistic.
"I am totally confident we will get her right for Rio," Sutton added.
"Another four or five weeks is really not going to matter. She has lost a lot of time but give us 12 months and a clean bill of health, then Becky will be knocking them over in Rio.
"We are talking about a girl that is one of the best on the world stage.
"If anyone is going to survive this and cope mentally, it will be Becky."

Summary: Welsh cyclist Becky James is "getting the best treatment possible" after having surgery on a knee injury, says track cyclist Richard Sutton.

Answer: 0


For its 3-2 victory over a team backed by phone-maker Samsung, SKT's five members shared a prize of $2m (Â£1.64m) between them.
The win is the third time in four years that SKT has taken the title. It also won the title in 2015.
The final ran for six hours and was held in front of almost 20,000 LoL fans at the Staples Center in Los Angeles.
SKT's Lee Sang-hyeok, aka Faker, was named as the most valuable player of the tournament.
The total prize pot for the tournament was $5m with $750,000 going to second place team Samsung. The money available to teams taking part was increased by fan contributions.
Writing on the Rock, Paper Shotgun gaming news site, Philippa Warr said the final had been "breathtaking", as the Samsung team had fought back from losing the first two games.
However, she said, everything had changed in the "beautiful" third game, which lasted 70 minutes and saw Samsung wrest a keenly contested win from SKT.
Samsung then took the fourth game more easily to set up the decider.
In the event, Warr said, SKT's "fluidity" and experience had won through, giving them the title, cash and Summoner's Cup trophy.
League of Legends is a massively popular game involving two teams of five players fighting over a small map
Each player controls a hero outfitted with a variety of attacks or defence abilities, and the winner is the first to destroy their opponent's base.
According to statistics from Riot Games, which created LoL, about 100 million people play the game every month.

Summary: SKT has won the League of Legends (LoL) final game.

Answer: 1