11.   U.S. bond prices skidded yesterday amid mounting speculation that Japanese investors may curb their purchases of Treasury securities.

12.   Chief Constable Ronnie Flanagan backed mounting speculation that the outlawed IRA would make the move in advance of a general election in the neighboring Republic of Ireland.

13.   The announcement by Minister of Administrative Development Bassam Amoush coincides with mounting speculation that the planned job cuts are dictated by the International Monetary Fund.

14.   The sudden meeting comes amid mounting speculation that Malaysia may opt to impose capital controls to restrict the amount of money leaving the country.

15.   He has denied mounting speculation that he is about to enter politics.

16.   His cardiologist also visited him at his residence amid mounting speculation that his days are numbered.

17.   In Seoul, the foreign ministry refused to comment on the mounting speculation.

18.   Australian captain Mark Taylor angrily denied on Thursday the mounting speculation that wonder spinner Shane Warne had been playing with a serious injury.

19.   Dealers noted mounting takeover speculation in the retailing and pharmaceutical sectors.

20.   England star Darren Anderton killed off mounting speculation about a possible move to Manchester United when he signed a new four-year contract with Tottenham on Thursday.