Tougher Radiation Standards
China, Beijing - Due to fears of health risks, telecom officials have
said that China may impose the world's toughest mobile phone radiation
standards. The proposed rules would cap the Specific Absorption Rate at one watt
per kg, half the level of radiation emissions that is allowed in other
countries. Mobile phone makers would need to invest hundreds of millions of
dollars in new product designs and tests should the rule be passed.
(Source: reprinted with permission, copyright Reuters 2002.)
The Notice of the Ministry of Finance and the State Administration of
Taxation on Measures for Further Promoting Implementation of Tax 'Exemptions,
Setoffs and Refunds'
China - The above Notice was issued to aid China in remaining competitive in
the international markets and relieving exporters of the Value Added Tax burden.
The Notice sets forth basic procedures, administration rules, the various
formulae required for calculating the tax payable and the amounts of exemptions,
setoffs and refunds. (Source: www.chinalegalchange.com.)
Increased Penalties for Rape and Incest
Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur - The Evidence Act may be amended to increase
penalties for rape and incest cases. Police will also set up one-stop centres
that will be manned by state police chiefs for victims of sexual violence. It is
hoped that the centre would provide a friendlier environment where victims may
speak freely without fear. Section 133 of the Act may also be amended to allow
the victim's testimony to be accepted without corroboration.
(Source: www.nst.com.my.)
Instant Relief from Gulf War Sickness
UK - In a landmark victory, an appeal court ruled that Gulf War Syndrome did
exist and was caused by active service. The victory is significant to Gulf War
veterans who claim to have the illness but have been turned down for army
pensions due to the failure of the Ministry of Defence to recognise the
sickness. Insomnia, fatigue, headaches, confusion, joint and muscle pain,
nausea, swollen glands and fevers are symptoms that have been associated with
the Syndrome. (Source: www.news.bbc.co.uk.)
Litigation on the Rise
UK - Unions and the National Association of Head Teachers have called for
new legislation to curb the rising tide of litigation against schools. They say
parents are threatening to sue over everything from permanent exclusions to
accidents at school, admissions policies and even exam results. There are
concerns also of the tactics used by some claims management firms of approaching
parents and telling them of the possibilities of suing for accidents in the
playground.
(Source: www.news.bbc.co.uk.)
Immunity from Violence in Court
US, San Francisco - In an unanimous vote, the Supreme Court ruled that
public entities in general are not liable for failing to protect individuals
against crime in the courthouse. This ruling has been much criticised by
feminist groups which say that women who use the courts for family matters, eg
divorce, child custody and restraining orders, are in danger.
(Source: www.news.findlaw.com.)