Minister's fury

An Australian local government minister who wrapped a microphone cord around the neck of a journalist during a television interview will not be sacked, AFP

reports from Darwin.

Jeremy Thompson, an Australian Broadcasting Corporation television reporter, was attacked by Max Ortmann, the Northern Territory's Transport and Works Minister during an interview in Mr Ortmann's office, after the minister objected to a question. The incident was captured on videotape and replayed on a current affairs programme. Viewers heard Mr Thompson cry out as the cord was tightened.