Frustration over unpaid wages and dismal conditions has been deepened by the prospect of a fundamental overhaul in which many thousands will lose their jobs.Last month, the Russian government announced plans to close 86 of the country's 200 mines this year. Last night, the captives were still being held in their offices at Polisayevo, in southern Siberia.Both incidents are further signs of the anger and restlessness that prevails among Russia's coal miners, who helped springboard Boris Yeltsin into power in 1991 but have since grown disillusioned with his rule. But, equally, it's no longer true that our public services are safe in Labour's hands."Mr Ashdown said that the first Budget measures by the Chancellor, Gordon Brown, had increased taxes by pounds 36bn over the five-year lifetime of the Parliament. Those tax increases, however, had gone on petrol, tobacco, house sales, pensions and savings - which tended to hit the poorest most badly - because Labour had promised not to increase income tax.Similarly, for spending, Labour had promised to maintain the Tories' spending limits, and patients and parents were now paying the price of that commitment in spite of the possibility that there was enough money available now for additional investment.Urging an extension of dedicated taxation, he said specific taxes might be raised for priority spending on nursery education, reducing class sizes, and school books and equipment, but he added that taxpayers themselves should be asked to identify their priorities and preferences."We need a new tax settlement to go with the new constitutional settlement," he said.

No sooner had they dispersed than 150 mine workers at a privatised pit took hostage their director and 21 others. Simmering anger over late pay, lousy conditions and sweeping cuts erupted into the open from the dark and dangerous caverns of Russia's coal pits yesterday. Some 1,500 miners in the Far East blockaded the tracks of the Trans-Siberian railway near Vladivostok for several hours alongside 1,000 defence workers. As Phil Reeves reports from Moscow, tensions are running high in a disaster-plagued and outdated industry which faces a huge overhaul. "I deeply apologise for this disgrace," Mr Mitsuzuka said.- AP, Tokyo. Twenty-two people were being held hostage last night by workers at a Siberian coal mine.

Don't agonise over lost lovers - opportunities will abound later in the year.The Dog(1911, 22, 34, 46, 58, 70, 82, 94, 2006)Howl at the full moon, for good fortune attends the dog all year. Horses will be picking up the tab for your social life so make friends with them.The Pig(1899, 1911, 23, 35, 47, 59, 71, 83, 95)Things will go well and you will earn fame and respect But choose your words carefully and avoid argument Invest wisely and take only what you deserve.. Bribery row forces Japan's finance minister to quit Jolted by allegations of bribery and reports that officials were entertained extravagantly in restaurants, Japan's finance minister said yesterday that he would step down after two senior officials under his supervision were arrested. Hiroshi Mitsuzuka had come under intense pressure to resign after prosecutors raided his ministry on Monday and opposition law-makers vowed to block critical national budget legislation until he quit. The year is better for men of this sign than for women.The Goat(1908, 19, 31, 43, 55, 67, 79, 91, 2003)The year will be an adventure, and when you look back the rewards will appear worthwhile. If you have contemplated getting married, changing jobs or even moving to a different country, do it this year.The Monkey(1909, 20, 32, 44, 56, 68, 80, 92, 2004)A period of instability for all primates. Buy a big, comfortable bed and spend as much time as possible in it.The Rooster(1910, 21,33, 45, 57, 69, 81, 93, 2005)Ideal time for new ventures in business or in romance, but only if long- term affairs are sought. But remember, there is nothing to be lost by a period of re-assessment.The Horse(1907, 18, 30, 42, 54, 66, 78, 90, 2002)This is a good year for the horse, involving a great deal of socialising, leading in turn to enhanced business prospects.