Iran thus wants to block or delay a sanctions vote.

ECONOMIST: Brazil, Turkey and Iran

But if Boehner's plan is for his party to act as an oppositional force -- trying to block, delay and prevent legislative action -- then the GOP could find itself in big trouble.

CNN: Commentary: Why GOP can't say 'whatever it is, we're against it'

Too often over the past four years, a single Senator or a handful of Senators has been able to unilaterally block or delay bipartisan legislation for the sole purpose of making a political point.

WHITEHOUSE: Statement by the President

Meanwhile, two MPs, Respect's George Galloway and Labour's Dennis Skinner, tried to block plans to delay the start of Commons business on Wednesday until 14:30 BST, which would cause the cancellation of Prime Minister's Questions.

BBC: Westminster service remembers Baroness Thatcher

Given the time it would take to clear up any disaster, he says, Brazil may block BP or delay the offshore drilling as they are eager to avoid any catastrophe in 2014 and 2016 when the nation will be in the world spotlight for the FIFA World Cup and the summer Olympics.

FORBES: Slower Growth, No Dividend: BP Is No Buy

The U.S. Senate is preparing to vote on legislation that would delay or block the Environmental Protection Agency from imposing carbon dioxide restrictions on the U.S. economy.

FORBES: The Senate's EPA Vote Will Help Determine Our Economic Future

In reality, Hunt is straining every sinew to delay, if not block, the takeover whilst ensuring that he is not subject to judicial review.

BBC: Hunt looks to clarify advice on News Corp's BSkyB bid

Since then, the Lords have been able only to delay government legislation, not to block it.

ECONOMIST: Peers versus people, round two