Basel, Switzerland-based Novartis (nyse: NVS - news - people ) issued a statement this morning confirming that it has done detailed feasibility studies on a white knight bid for Aventis (nyse: AVE - news - people ), which is the target of a hostile takeover by Sanofi-Synthelabo (nyse: SNY - news - people ).

FORBES: Aventis-Novartis Tie-Up Looks Unlikely

The Mars Inspiration team says that it has carried out a feasibility study for the mission which it plans to release on Sunday.

BBC: US private sector hopes to send older couple to Mars

It has also commissioned a feasibility study into hosting the Men's EuroBasket tournament in either 2015 or 2017 as another sign of long-term commitment.

BBC: Great Britain teams to play at London 2012 Olympics

The trust fund is worth having as a buffer, but it has zero to do with the feasibility of the system.

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The county council said it is looking at the feasibility of the project and has not released details of the cost of relocation.

BBC: County council plans 2,500 staff-move into Northampton