11.   Even with the crumbling of political barriers and East-West rivalry, it has refused to alter that stance.

12.   Gov. John G. Rowland, who supports the death penalty, said the ruling does not alter his stance on the issue.

13.   It was not clear whether they would alter their stance if the midnight deadline passed without progress.

14.   Unless amendments to the convention are made, Japan will not alter its stance, Suzuki said.