Around the world

United States

White House to allow photos

The White House says visitors can now take photos or use social media during public tours of the building. The announcement came from Michelle Obama in a video posted on her Instagram account. She's seen ripping in half a sign that's been displayed during tour hours and says "no photos or social media allowed".

India

5 arrested over monkey video

Indian authorities said on Wednesday they had arrested five men in the snatching of a monkey after video footage emerged of a distressed primate being bundled into the trunk of a car. The short clip carried by Indian media showed a young monkey desperately trying to free itself from the clutches of two men as several primates looked on. The men succeeded in throwing the struggling monkey into the back of a white Hyundai before driving away.

New Zealand

Food supplies drive weight gain

Greater quantities of food available in supermarkets and eateries is subconsciously driving people around the world to eat more and gain weight, New Zealand researchers said on Wednesday. A study by the University of Auckland School of Population Health found that in 45 countries, which were mostly high income countries like New Zealand, the increase in the food supply from 1971 to 2010 was more than enough to explain the increases in body weight, lead author Stefanie Vandevijere said.

Laos

Climate change hits development

Worsening climate change will hamper efforts to achieve development and eliminate poverty in developing countries like Laos unless it is addressed both globally and locally, said Phouvong Luangxaysana, the country's director general of the department of disaster management and climate change. Phouvong told an international symposium in Vientiane that unexpected and extreme weather events were increasing in regularity and severity.

Australia

Panelbeaters OK, dentists barred

Australia wants more foreign auto body repair people, but has pulled the plug on overseas dentists, after updating its skilled occupation list on Wednesday. Panelbeaters, who repair bodywork, along with cabinet makers, will be able to apply for temporary or permanent residency in Australia as of Wednesday. But urban and regional planners, dentists and dental specialists have lost their invitations. The list identifies occupations where independent skilled migrants will assist in meeting the medium and long term skill needs of the Australian economy.

Reuters - AFP - Xinhua

(China Daily 07/02/2015 page10)