As others see us

THE POLICE did not rule out the possibility that it could have been an accident. The plastic bag and the electrical flex could have been accessories to a risky sadomasochistic masturbation, since lack of oxygen to the brain increases sexual pleasure. The outfit of stockings and suspender belt, although exotic, is not outside the norm within the amatory practices of the English upper classes.

'El Pais', Spanish daily

(STEPHEN) Milligan paid dearly for his liaisons dangereuses. One of the few Conservatives of 'the old guard' composed of impeccable gentlemen likens the present period in Great Britain - all scandals and depravity - to Sodom and Gomorrah.

Some say that the Conservatives, resigned to defeat, spend their time experimenting with new sexual experiences rather than defending themselves from the assault from Labour . . . The Britain which Prime Minister Major promised to return to the traditional values of 'God, the country and the family' is looking more and more like ancient Rome at its worst.

'La Repubblica', Italian daily

(MILLIGAN'S) death, in troubling circumstances, is intriguing. It also relaunches the controversy over the morals of the political majority. Since the beginning of the year, a series of scandals founded on corruption and extra-conjugal pranks has occupied political life. At the same time, it is the credibility of the Conservative Party and the Government which is at stake.

'Le Figaro', French daily