Greenspan predicts recession in US  

As the credit crisis continues to bite around the world, two eminent economists have predicted the United States will most likely fall into a recession next year. 

Zeffirelli offers Pope a makeover

Franco Zeffirelli, the Italian film, stage and opera director, has said Pope Benedict XVI needs a makeover of his 'cold' image and 'showy' clothes. 

Zeffirelli told La Stampa newspaper that the Pope communicated in a cold way that was little suited to what was happening around him. 

Finally, Howard admits McKew has it

“The 33-year parliamentary career of John Howard ended today when he finally conceded defeat in Bennelong and congratulated the woman who beat him, Labor's Maxine McKew .... 

The involvement of agency lawyers in the decision making would widen the scope of the inquiries into the matter that have now begun in Congress and within the Justice Department.  

Garrett, Kerry discuss US stance on climate change ….. 

Environment Minister Peter Garrett has met US Democrats Senator John Kerry in Bali to discuss the United States' position on climate change. 

the opposition frontbench at a glance ….. 

Julie Bishop: employment, business and workplace relations 

Malcolm Turnbull: shadow treasurer 

Andrew Robb: foreign affairs 

On Tuesday, President Bush said he was never forewarned by the intelligence community that Iran had suspended its nuclear weapons program in 2003: 

Gillard defends Garrett sidelining 

Deputy Prime Minister Julia Gillard has defended Labor's decision to bar Environment Minister Peter Garrett from answering parliamentary questions about climate change. 

Steve Irwin' ship to confront Japanese whalers 

Faulkner may have conflict of interest with ALP job: Nelson 

The Federal Opposition says there may be a conflict of interest with new Special Minister of State John Faulkner's presidency of the Labor Party.  

Ruddock plans to mentor MPs from backbench

Philip Ruddock says he has not decided whether he will serve out his full parliamentary term 

The cutting wisdom of the ordinary folk, once a week …..   

The man in the street is not happy... 

Sure, the demise of the Rat-gang leader puts a wry smile on the man's glowing unshaven face...  

Prime Minister John Howard has rung Labor leader Kevin Rudd to concede defeat after voters deserted his  11-year government in tonight's federal election. 

Mr Howard then appeared at Sydney's Wentworth Hotel to address Liberal Party faithful. 

from Crikey ….. 

Reality check: Honey, I doomed the universe 

Richard Farmer writes: