Cloud over car bailout

Washington, Dec. 11: The White House urged Republicans in the Senate to back a $14 billion bill to rescue the US auto industry. The Republicans have enough votes to stop the auto bailout plan. With President George W. Bush’s influence waning in the final weeks of his unpopular administration,“no one cares what the White House thinks”, a senior Republican aide said.

Kingfisher fee

Mumbai, Dec. 11: Kingfisher Airlines has agreed to pay a 3 per cent commission to travel agents on the gross fare. The commission would be effective from tomorrow, a Kingfisher Airlines spokesperson said. Jet Airways also agreed this week to pay a 3 per cent commission.

RBI measure

Mumbai, Dec. 11: The RBI has tightened the norms for Indian banks outsourcing services abroad, asking them to maintain all original records. Banks were also asked to ensure that if the offshore service provider was a regulated entity, the foreign regulator should not obstruct or object to the RBI’s inspection.

Port plea

Calcutta, Dec. 11: Calcutta Port Trust has urged the Bengal government to take up the new iron ore freight policy with Indian Railways. The changes incorporated by the Railways has put Haldia at a disadvantage viz-a-viz Paradip and Vizag.

PNB move

New Delhi, Dec. 11: Punjab National Bank will provide online payment facility to the students of the Indira Gandhi National Open University.