21.   Von Moltke rejected persistent rumours that the study on expansion included demands for stationing nuclear arms in new NATO countries.

22.   Mandela submitted himself to the tests to dispel persistent rumours that his health is failing.

23.   Media group Pearson rose eight pence amid persistent rumours of a takeover.

24.   Officials have also denied persistent rumours -- carried by some Algiers newspapers -- that the elections will be postponed.

25.   Persistent rumours and press comment had suggested that one of the key players in the firing line was Finance Minister Jean Arthuis.

26.   Persistent rumours about a possible cut in Italian interest rates also boosted the market.

27.   Persistent rumours suggest that Roche might soon bid for a rival.

28.   Persistent rumours in Bujumbura said the Tutsi militiamen arrested had been on pre-established lists drawn up by the commissions.

29.   President Suharto of Indonesia sought Friday to dismiss persistent rumours about his health when he met peasants in his home region of Java.

30.   South African President Nelson Mandela on Tuesday began three days of tests at a Johannesburg clinic aimed at quashing persistent rumours that his health is failing.