In this case, it would not have been so hard because it includes a number of possible lines of inquiry - not least whether or not Savile had changed his phone number.

BBC: The missed chances to get Jimmy Savile

Asia flights are profitable, of course, and carry a higher proportion of business travelers than Europe flights do, but it is possible to make the case that the relative weakness of American in Asia is not quite as drastic as it might initially seem.

FORBES: Why US Airways Needs American and Delta Needs Virgin

Mr Paice, meanwhile, has recently said badger culling in England may not be possible because the government may not be able to build a scientific case that could survive a legal challenge.

BBC: UK public opposed to badger cull, opinion poll suggests

However, officials stress that Powell "did not recommend" holding back on possible indictments against Iranian officials suspected of involvement in the case.

CNN: Khobar Towers indictments returned

Although Bernstein is not involved in the Dorner case, "I think that all the elements are there for a possible identification, " he said.

CNN: How authorities identify a burned body