Chain reaction: Asia-Pacific states escalate their protests as France prepares for nuclear tests in Polynesia. The dispute threatens to pummel France's political and economic interests in the region

Article Abstract:

France's decision to resume nuclear testing on the Mururoa atoll in the South Pacific has aroused anger and harsh words worldwide, especially among Asian-Pacific states. Australia dropped a French firm from the running for a $720 million contract, and France recalled its ambassador to that country. Australians, New Zealanders, and Japanese have called for boycotts, and New Zealand plans to challenge the tests in the International Court of Justice. China has also tested recently, but does so at home and had not agreed to a moratorium.

Other Ordnance and Accessories Manufacturing, Ordnance and accessories, not elsewhere classified, Nuclear Bombs, France, Testing, International relations, Nuclear weapons, Nuclear testing, Atomic bombs

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Black stilt blues: power crunch threatens rare bird species

Article Abstract:

A combination of droughts and cold winters in New Zealand may result in the decimation of the black stilt population. There are only 104 of the wading birds in existence, most of which live in their natural habitat around the Southern Alps. However, low water levels might force the Electricity Corporation of New Zealand to use the water in this area to generate hydroelectricity, upon which the country is largely dependent. Additional rainfall in Jul 1992 will hopefully raise water levels and save the black stilt habitat.

Environmental aspects, Natural history, Environmental policy, Hydroelectric power plants, Electricity Corporation of New Zealand

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Uncharted territory

Article Abstract:

The New Zealand banking system is in sound condition. Its biggest threat is its rapid adaptation to new technology. Over 45% of retail banking transactions are now conducted away from bank branches, so banks are closing branches. Telephone banking transactions increased threefold between 1995 and 1996. Consumers used electronic funds transfer at the point of sale (eftpos) in 40% of their Jun 1997 retail transactions, compared to 30% in Jun 1996, and mobile eftpos terminals will be available from early 1998.

Commercial Banking, Banking Institutions, Depository Credit Intermediation, DEPOSITORY INSTITUTIONS, Functions related to deposit banking, Electronic Banking Svcs, Banking industry, Innovations, Banks (Finance), Cover Story, Electronic banking, Electronic funds transfer systems

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