Rather like the length of the queue of coal ships outside Newcastle, the world's largest coal export port, Westfield's retail results are fast becoming a global barometer.

BBC: Australia: The Consequential Country

Despite this, Mr Dobson and Co insisted from the opposition benches, and still do in government, that the length of the queue matters.

ECONOMIST: Waiting for Dobbo

At the Denver conference the queue waiting for her autograph extended the length of a vast ballroom.

ECONOMIST: America rediscovers its heartland