Justice denied

The cost of a get-out-of-jail-free card for Nomura is Kč 63bn. That's the amount the Japanese bank is willing to give up in possible arbitration gains to secure a pardon for its managers charged with regard to IPB. Journalists were outraged. "Buy yourself a Klaus pardon!" wrote MFD. Finance Minister Vlastimil Tlustý admitted that the quid pro quo presents a moral dilemma. But more important, he said, is putting the matter behind us. Lots of people have egg on their face with regard to IPB, he told Czech Radio, and it isn't easy to identify who is more to blame. By clearing the table, all of those involved will have to settle for the chips in front of them. But they will also be assured of being able to cash in their chips without ever again having to explain themselves. In fact, dozens of egg-smeared people are getting a free pass. It's a great deal, except for those who still believe in justice. [Czech Republic MF Dnes Václav]