But the ruralistas are the largest cross-party block in Congress, and that limited the president's room for manoeuvre.

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The European Commission is fearful that Poland's stance marks a growing trend of protectionism from states trying to block cross-border mergers, notably in the banking and utilities industries.

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Rep. Henry Waxman in a letter yesterday urged Sec. of State Hillary Clinton to block permits for the cross-border pipeline.

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That is what has driven Mr Kirch towards a cross-border alliance of the sort that the authorities are less likely to block.

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From Charing Cross, dogleg a block to Buckingham Street, lined with pretty, well-preserved redbrick Georgian houses.

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"He rushed out to block the cross and I feel he was unhappy with his decision-making, " said the Frenchman of Patrice Evra's cross for Ronaldo's goal.

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Villa could only half block Cruyff's cross and the ball broke to Sheringham who planted it left-footed into the corner of the net, although Enckelman managed to get a hand to the shot.

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