Southern Israel shootings

BBC News online has reported that Israel is investigating shots being fired at it from across its border with Egypt south of the Gaza territory that was handed back in 2005. This territory was part of Israel in 1948 and is not 'occupied territory.'

It is up to the Egyptian democracy to co-operate as part of its peace treaty with Israel in order to stop the loss of life that only fanatics would want in order to stop a new Palestinian state being successful.

It is also why peace walls outside of urban areas have a part to play in making Israel secure if the border is internationally recognised. This does not negate from a joint status solution for Jerusalem, Bethlehem and Ramallah as the Palestinian assembly is next door to a peace wall. Thus from a practical viewpoint it is better for a common security foce for that 'tri city area' that has the confidence of all its residents.

A level results today

To all the A level hopefuls today good luck with your exam results. If the fees are too much consider working and study with the Ou or Uni of London External and vocational employment training to fund your way through a college nearby. Under current travel card rules you can still claim a discounted travel card till you are 19.

This applies if you are already a greater london resident other universities offer external schemes that may be nearer to where you live.

Housing benefit is allocated at the local government level, the town hall for each London borough handles applications. Some have integrated Council Tax benefit applications but the criteria for gaining each may differ.