These forces are, if anything, likely to be more important in the future due to emerging world conditions and the contraction of American military forces to bases in the continental U.S. The discussion also appeared to confirm that the most cost- effective means of assuring the future viability of the manned bomber force would be through continued production of the B-2.

CENTERFORSECURITYPOLICY: Center for Security Policy | SUMMARY OF THE CENTER FOR SECURITY POLICY��S SECOND HIGH-LEVEL ROUNDTABLE ON THE FUTURE OF THE MANNED BOMBER FORCE

It tried to force utilities to increase production of renewable energy in the face of fierce opposition by the utility industry group, and it included a tax package that the White House has long indicated it would not support.

FORBES: Senate Passes Watered-Down Energy Bill

Mines responsible for between 100 and 140 million tons of annual coking coal production are now under force majeure, representing as much as 40% of global supply.

FORBES: Australian Floods Cause Drought in the Coal Market

Californian geese (and indeed humans) will enjoy healthier lives once a ban on the production and sale of foie gras comes into force in July.

ECONOMIST: The law may sometimes save an ass

At today's levels of world demand, an influx of Iraqi crude could force down prices and make other OPEC members cut production even more than they already have over the past year.

ECONOMIST: Iraq, Iran and the politics of oil

For example, the Air Force's critical pilot shortage would be further exacerbated by reducing the production of new pilots through Undergraduate Pilot Training.

CENTERFORSECURITYPOLICY: Center For Security Policy

Shortly prior to its ceasefire announcement MEND had carried out its boldest attack against Nigeria's oil installations since it launched its campaign of violence in late 2005, when an attack on Shell's Bongo facility, 120km out to sea, forced the Anglo-Dutch major temporarily to halt production equivalent to about 10% of Nigeria's output, and to declare force majeure.

ECONOMIST: A big rebel group in the Niger Delta calls off its ceasefire

The huge size of the Chinese industry now makes it a dominant force in both the global steel market and the market for production inputs such as iron ore and metallurgical coal.

FORBES: Intelligence Community Fears U.S. Manufacturing Decline