For his part, Mr Blair wants to see both sides take a series of steps to curb the violence which has escalated dangerously in the two weeks since a radical Palestinian group assassinated an Israeli cabinet minister on 17 October in revenge for the Israeli killing of their leader earlier in the year.

BBC: Sharon and Blair

In all, 17 of the 18 holes have been significantly altered, with the 18th undergoing the most radical revamp, and the course now plays as a reduced par 71.

BBC: English trio eye Woods's ranking

While all 17 of its members accept that things have got out of hand, some are keener on radical change than others.

ECONOMIST: The European Central Bank

"Radical action is needed to reduce the tragic waste of young lives on our roads, especially among the 17 to 24 age group, " said ABI director general Otto Thoresen.

BBC: Drivers 'should be made to learn for a year'