Some 19 civilians, including a Spanish citizen, were allegedly shot dead by Chávez supporters and minor government officials, during the massive opposition march that led to his brief ousting in April.

Observer hears that, under pressure from angry Oxford academics, the event's organisers have sheepishly changed the billed topic to "Globalisation and Poverty".

Chávez might recall General Augusto Pinochet's unexpectedly prolonged visit to the UK. Observer understands that certain files are sitting on the desk of none other than Spanish prosecutor Judge Baltasar Garzon, who gained fame when he filed charges some years ago against Pinochet.

But that may be the least of Chávez's worries. With labour leaders and opposition businesses demanding immediate elections and his resignation, he may soon find himself out of a job.

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