1Retired Christchurch judge Sir Clinton Roper, who heads a Government inquiry into violent crime, is refusing to be intimidated by a firebomb attack on his house.

2The Soviet Union has assured the world that there is no danger from radioactive fallout in the wake of the Chernobyl nuclear disaster, and the emergency is under control. However, the disaster is turning into an East/West propaganda war with little information being officially released by the Soviets.

3Defence ties between New Zealand and Australia are to be further strengthened following talks in Canberra this week.

4New Zealand's increasing dairy trade with Libya could be in jeopardy following reports that European Common Market (EEC) countries have banned butter sales there.

5New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRFU) Chairman Ces Blazey has arrived home in New Zealand, saying he is "surprised and saddened" by the South African Rugby Board's endorsement of the Cavaliers' rugby tour. Interview with Ces Blazey.

6The Council of Federated Farmers today had the chance to speak to the leaders of the two main political parties. The Government made it clear that it plans to stick to its economic strategy. However, the Opposition invited the Federation to put forward a 'Survival Package'. Opposition leader Jim Bolger has suggested the concept of a "managed float" of the exchange rate. Interview with Jim Bolger.

7Wellington ratepayers may know this Saturday the outcome of a poll on the fate of $10 million sewerage proposal, a plan that has dominated local body politics in the capital for weeks. Wellington is the only major city in new Zealand that does not have a proper sewerage scheme. The City Council has proposed a loan for a mini screening plant, as a first step. However, opponents say the scheme is short sighted and wrong, and therefore forced the ratepayers' poll.