The only timetable you can count on is an uneven, long lasting period of political volatility that will thrust oil prices up in fits and starts.

FORBES: The Double Whammy Of Libya And Japan Bullish For Oil Prices

In a period lasting through nine American presidencies, the Soviets and their satellite states were formidable adversaries.

CNN: Thompson's November 13, 2007, speech to The Citadel

His studies on families of the first Gulf War found that reintegration problems played out in a period lasting around six months to year.

CNN: Experts: Parents' deployment puts kids at high risk for problems

It is proposing some conditions on the BBC's participation in the venture and will have a further period of consultation, lasting until February.

BBC: Project Canvas given green light by BBC Trust

But that period of careless talk and occasional over-confidence did lasting reputational damage.

BBC: Flooding in York

The mayor is a hugely ambitious man, who is undoubtedly keen to leave a lasting legacy, and who some believe may want to remain as mayor for a period of Daleyian proportions.

ECONOMIST: Investing in infrastructure: A question of trust | The