A round-up of today's other stories in brief.
Talks fail on new Czech government
PRAGUE - The Czech Social Democrats walked away from talks to support prime minister Mirek Topolanek's rightist minority government yesterday, and instead said they were going to try to form their own cabinet.
Social Democrat leader Jiri Paroubek said he wanted the centrist Christian Democrats as his coalition partner, as the EU member state lurches on without a government nearly three months after an inconclusive election in June.
In a surprise move leaving the rightist leader Mr Topolanek with no allies, Mr Paroubek and Christian Democrat chief Miroslav Kalousek said they hoped the Communists would tolerate their cabinet and help it win a confidence vote. - (Reuters)
Shanghai shelter for internet addicts
BEIJING - Shanghai has opened China's first shelter for internet addicts to help them bridge the gap between their virtual world and dysfunctional family homes.
The inauguration of the halfway house yesterday highlights growing government concerns about the explosive growth of the web in China, where one in eight young net users are reportedly addicted. - (Guardian service)
At least 17 killed in Iraq attacks
BAGHDAD - A series of violent attacks across Iraq left at least 17 people dead, including three US soldiers, authorities said yesterday.
The killings came despite assurances from US officials that progress was being made to improve security in the capital.
At least 14 Iraqis, including civilians, soldiers and police, were killed in bombings and shootings, the latest casualties in the country's ongoing sectarian and political violence. - (Reuters)
12th man charged over aircraft plot
LONDON - British authorities charged a 12th suspect yesterday over a suspected plot to blow up aircraft bound for the United States.
Umair Hussain (24) was charged with failing to give information that could have prevented a terrorist attack, police said.
He is due to appear in a London court today. - (Reuters)
France to restrict smoking in public
PARIS - French health minister Xavier Bertrand has said he intends to introduce tough restrictions on smoking in public.
All cafes and bars, with the exception of those few which already have a licence to sell cigarettes, and all restaurants, shops and offices will be forced to introduce a smoking ban, the minister said.