We welcome the statement made by President Taylor about the imminent release of the journalists. We look forward to welcoming them home.

The Channel continues to work with legal support on the ground in Liberia in coordination with British consular officials towards a rapid and satisfactory conclusion of this situation.

I can confirm that we have had correspondence from solicitors acting on David Blunkett's behalf.

We understand the charges ... were brought in court without legal representation for the men,

I think it was ill-timed, I think it was ill-conceived and I think it was a matter of poor judgment,

For the first time perhaps since (1979 to 1990 prime minister) Margaret Thatcher we will have at the head of the Conservative Party someone who is genuinely an equal match for Tony Blair -- one of the most skilful politicians of modern times,