Common Euro drivers’ licences: One more benefit being put forward by the European Commission for the 500-million people of the EU to be under the one top level of government.
Saving the lives of young people on the roads is being given as a prime reason for brinigng in the new plastic permits. … Read More »
In the middle of the time of year for dangerous weather, both North and South are facing a difficult week.
Europe has a mounting toll of lives lost in the extreme cold conditions; Australia is standing-by for more heat wave conditions generating the bushfires, and now cyclones off the Northern coasts. … Read More »
OPINION: New governments seem prone to blunders and scandals that carry off Ministers early, not least in France where the major parties drag around heavy baggage from corruption in past administrations.
This week the man under fire is Jérôme Cahuzac, Budget Minister in the government formed after elections last year (Presidential 6.5.12; parliamentary 17.6.12; see EUAustralia Online, “French Vote: Hollande party consolidatesâ€, 15.6.12).
The Paris parquet, the administrative court, has started an inquiry into claims by the investigative news service, Mediapart, that he hid money in a Swiss bank account, and later in Singapore, before entering public office. … Read More »
OPINION: A reality check for Gerard Depardieu (picture): the tax-averse French actor and multi-millionaire has been invited by Russia to become a citizen there – and if he really wants, to say goodbye to France forever.
Mr Depardieu, a hugely loved and accomplished performer, became a symbol of his native country through 114 films or tele-movies made since 1971; in the world of unreality as an ordinary bloke battling comically against all odds, a Frenchman abroad, or an historical leader of humankind. … Read More »
Among major players of the century, the outlook for Russia shows mixed economic prospects, more nationalistic position-taking, and “strong government†– as President Vladimir Putin flexes into his new, six-year term of office. … Read More »
OPINION: The closing stages of 2012 showed all indications for “more of the same†in the year to come: in times of burgeoning human ingenuity, knowledge and productivity, it is a world grappling with the economics of human survival, and threats to survival of the planet itself. … Read More »
The year 2012 has seen over 170000 site visits; welcome support for a service that aims to keep abreast of news from Europe, with emphasis on Australian connections and perspectives. … Read More »