Asked on Wednesday if he had the backing of the attorney general - the government's chief law officer - for unfreezing Libyan assets, Mr Hague said the government "based on any legal considerations as well as political considerations are united in this position".

BBC: UK expels Gaddafi diplomats and recognises Libya rebels

Given the zero-sum assumptions on which this game is based, the loss of Mr Whelan strengthens the position of Mr Campbell, another trusted Blair adviser.

ECONOMIST: Politics

However, in no way, based on his previous performance, should this be a reason for him not to ascend to this highly coveted position.

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Shares of PRB Energy have gained 40% in value since Jan. 15, and the gurus found this quick gain quite acceptable, taking profits on their entire position in the Denver-based natural gas production and pipeline company.

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"This institution could well put America in a position to be held hostage to blackmail, to threats based on our military presence around the world, our diplomatic efforts, our geopolitical economic interests, " said Sen.

CNN: U.S. to sign war crimes treaty