1.   An investigating magistrate has since sought permission to go to Syria to pursue his inquiry.

2.   Prosecutors sought permission for his arrest on Monday, and Justice Minister Mayumi Moriyama appeared before a lower house panel on Tuesday to strengthen the plea.

3.   The papers also promised claimants that Allstate would treat them fairly in resolving their claims and sought permission to obtain their medical and employment records.

4.   Three mining executives charged with violating pollution laws, including an Australian and a US citizen, sought permission Wednesday to leave the Philippines, a court official said.