But O Globo added that the talks could restart if the South African Football Federation made a new proposal.

BBC: SPORT | Football | African | Parreira's SA mission in trouble

Much more controversial is the ministry's suggestion that Japan should open its doors to lots of low-paid, low-skilled nursing assistants, a proposal championed by Nikkeiren, Japan's employers' federation.

ECONOMIST: Immigration in Japan

Although a similar pan-European proposal was defeated earlier this month, few believe that the issue is dead, particularly given the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry's claim last Thursday that 2008 will be the year of greater ISP responsibility.

BBC: A padlock and key