Swiss Air

The air forces of Switzerland and Italy are to work closely together, in order to ensure that the 2006 Turin Winter Olympics are protected from terrorist attack.

The Swiss government is seeking parliamentary approval for a cross-border defence accord with Italy, before the games begin next February.

The Swiss government went on record and said:

"This type of event attracts the attention of the whole world and offers extremist groups the chance to realise their aims through terrorist attacks,".

The objective of the exercise is to enable the exchange of information between Switzerland and Italy, and to improve the possibility of intervention in the event of a specific threat.

During cross border engagements the air forces are only permitted to use infrared warning fire. The neighbouring country's air force is not permitted to engage in live warning fire, or to attempt to shoot down aircraft.

Softball Loses By One

Softball lost its chances of staying in the 2012 Olympics by one vote, according to the results of last month's secret IOC ballot.

It received 52 votes in favour and 52 against, with one abstention, in the July 8 vote of the International Olympic Committee in Singapore.

It needed 53 votes to stay.

Softball will be played at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, and then can apply in 2009 for reinstatement at the 2016 Games.