Dead microphone delays Petraeus report on Iraq

WASHINGTON - A much-awaited report on US military progress in Iraq by General David Petraeus was delayed Monday when the microphones went dead.
After statements by several members of Congress at the hearing, Petraeus was given the floor, but although his lips moved in front of the microphone, nothing could be heard.
"Is there any way to take the microphones in the front row to the podium?" asked Representative Ike Skelton, chairman of the House Armed Services Committee.
"I`m told it will take five minutes to fix the microphones," he added, adjourning the hearing until the audio equipment was put in working order.
kdz/jkb

09/10/2007 17:30 GMT