Chavez plans new referendum
Venezuela’s Hugo Chavez says he expects a fresh referendum in February on a move allowing him to stand for re-election.

Republican wins key Senate race
US Republican Senator Saxby Chambliss wins re-election in Georgia, dashing the Democrats’ hopes of a “super-majority”.

US carmakers publish rescue plans
US carmakers General Motors, Ford and Chrysler present their new cost-cutting plans to Congress.

Thai demonstrators leave airports
Thai anti-government protesters hand over Bangkok’s main airports to the authorities after an eight-day blockade.

Chinese dairy exports in decline
China’s dairy exports have all but ground to a halt following the scandal earlier this year when milk was tainted with melamine.

15 year term sought in Munir case
Prosecutors request a 15-year jail term for an ex-spy chief accused of ordering a murder, but are accused of leniency.