The boat is full
The week's news at a glance.
Brussels
The E.U. created a rapid-reaction force this week to protect its southern borders against illegal immigrants. Last year, more than 31,000 bedraggled refugees reached Spanish territory, most coming from Africa crammed into tiny boats. Thousands each year drown before reaching their destination. Spain, Italy, Portugal, and Malta have been pleading with the E.U. to help them police their borders. The new border guard teams will be drawn from a pool of 450 agents from all 27 E.U. countries. “It is the best ever example of European solidarity,” said E.U. Home Affairs Commissioner Franco Frattini.
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Peter Mandelson called Epstein his 'best pal' in birthday note
Speed Read The UK's ambassador to Washington described the late convicted paedophile as an 'intelligent, sharp-witted man'
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'Vampire energy' could be causing your electric bill to rise
Under the Radar Wasted energy could account for up to 10% of home use
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A Spinal Tap reunion, Thomas Pynchon by way of Paul Thomas Anderson and a harrowing Stephen King adaptation in September movies
the week recommends This month's new releases include 'Spinal Tap II,' 'One Battle After Another' and 'The Long Walk'