31.   The union representing Northwest Airlines mechanics, cleaners and custodians asked airline executives to return to the bargaining table on Monday but told workers to continue strike preparations.

32.   And as the team continued their preparations on Wednesday, Richards played a full part in an England workout, including scrum practice.

33.   At the same time, Khartoum continued preparations to mount a counter-offensive, which the government has been saying is imminent for the past week.

34.   Finance Secretary Roberto De Ocampo said the government would continue preparations to implement the VAT if the court order is lifted.

35.   Woodward confronted the whole episode as he continued preparations for the Ireland game this weekend.

36.   Ivanisevic travels to Melbourne on Friday to continue preparations for the Open.

37.   Meanwhile France was continuing its preparations for sending an international, French-led intervention force to Rwanda to protect civilians from inter-ethnic massacres.

38.   Nigeria face Kenya here on Saturday as they continue their preparation for the World Cup.