51.   Branco argued that the church in East Timor was a key player in the independence movement and that serving as a mediator could only weaken its position.

52.   But the two junior partners have seen their positions weakened since last week by defections to a new party.

53.   Diplomats said Arab states feared removal of the boycott would weaken their position in peace negotiations with Israel.

54.   This report may call into question the activities of numerous ministers and could weaken the position of the government.

55.   Political commentators expect results to weaken the position of the embattled Prime Minsister John Major.

56.   The expected setback for the Democrats, which would weaken the position of President Bill Clinton further, might weaken the dollar.