11.   But that appeal may fall on deaf ears now that the Serbs, apparently weakened and shaken by punishing NATO airstrikes, are in retreat.

12.   But those appeals mostly fell on deaf ears.

13.   Clinton had called for the opening of an official dialogue with Iran but the appeal fell on deaf ears.

14.   Officials said the government would subsidize the effort if the appeal falls short.

15.   The appeal has fallen on deaf ears as repatriation figures keep dropping.

16.   A last-minute appeal by Johnson fell on deaf ears, according to most analysts.

17.   But his appeals fell on deaf ears, as Taiwanese formed queues around banks and gold shops to stock up on safe-haven currencies and precious metals.

18.   But their appeal apparently fell on deaf ears in the administration.

19.   She could face a firing squad if appeals for clemency fall on deaf ears.