News Headlines - 10 September 2015

▽Norway says won't pay ransom for man held hostage by IS | Reuters

A Norwegian man has been held hostage in Syria since January and is now believed to be in the hands of Islamic State, Prime Minister Erna Solberg said on Wednesday, adding she would not yield to the group's demand for a ransom payment.

▽US Wary, Not Surprised, by Russia's Syria Efforts

Top U.S. intelligence and security officials say Russia’s ramped up presence in Syria should come as little surprise though they remain concerned about Moscow’s increasingly aggressive posture.

▽Puerto Rico Lays Out 5-Year Plan for Restructuring Its Debts - The New York Times

Trying to balance the demands of anxious island residents on one side and powerful financial institutions on the other, the governor of Puerto Rico announced a plan Wednesday for bailing the island out of debt that would require at least five years of bruising reform if it is to succeed.

▽Parts of Japan Hit by Extreme Flooding

Heavy rains in already drenched areas of central and northern Japan caused major flooding Thursday, forcing tens of thousands of people to evacuate and setting off dramatic rescues of those who could not get out in time.

▽Hotel rates up to 1,095 per cent higher for Rugby World Cup - Telegraph

Hotels in 11 UK destinations have increased their room rates by up to 1,095 per cent for stays during the Rugby World Cup, new research has revealed.
With just 10 days until kick off, the search website Trivago has released data showing how much availability remains in each host city when the tournament is in town – and how much guests are paying for overnight stays.