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Wednesday, 7 January, 2009

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PM covers a broad spectrum of issues relevant to all sections of Australia's geographically and culturally diverse community. It looks behind political, economic, industrial, business, social, cultural, rural, regional and arts stories. Below is the latest program summary and transcripts are published as soon as they become available. You can listen to today's full program or individual reports in Real Media, Microsoft Windows Media or MP3.

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Updated Wednesday, 7 January, 2009

United Nations Security Council considers Gaza ceasefire proposal

The United Nations Security Council is considering a proposal by Egypt and France to halt the fighting in the Gaza Strip. Both Israel and Hamas are facing mounting pressure to accept the ceasefire plan.

Israel considers ceasefire proposal

The ABC's Middle East correspondent Ben Knight says Israel's Government is seriously considering the ceasefire proposal. He says any end to hostilities may include an international security force to monitor the border between Egypt and Gaza.

Navy told to phase out asbestos

The Defence Minister Joel Fitzgibbon has ordered the Australian Navy to stop using asbestos contaminated parts within two years. Mr Fitzgibbon says there's little chance sailors will contract asbestos-related diseases from the parts, but he still wants them phased out.

Japan's PM admits POWs used as forced labourers

The Prime Minister of Japan Taro Aso has admitted that Allied POWs were used as forced labourers in his family's mining company during World War Two. Former Australian POWs are now calling for a full apology from the Japanese leader.

Searchers find historic shipwreck

Researchers confirm a shipwreck found on the Great Barrier Reef is that of The Mermaid. They say it provides the closing chapter to the surveying of the Australian coastline.

Fifteenth anniversary of Native Title

Fifteen years after the introduction of the Native Title Legislation in Australia, questions are being asked about how effective it is. The Federal Social Justice Commissioner Tom Calma says it's a slow and cruel system and needs urgent reform in order to fulfil its original intention of reconciliation.

Opera captures Cape Town teens' hearts

Two teenagers in Cape Town are hoping they'll be able to sing their way out of poverty. The two singers have shunned the dominant trends in the local music scene to follow a passion for opera.