Republican convention opens minus key speakers
Updated
The United States' Republican convention has officially opened, although Hurricane Gustav has had a big impact on proceedings.
North America correspondent, Mark Simkin, reports the organisers shortened the first session and devoted it to administrative matters and fundraising for storm victims.
All the big-name speakers, including George W. Bush, pulled out, although Laura Bush addressed the delegates and urged them to give money to relief agencies.
"When such events occur, we're reminded that first, we're all Americans," she said.
Outside the convention, an anti-war rally turned violent when dozens of anarchists broke away from the march and started breaking shop windows and slashing car tyres.
The police fired pepper spray and tear gas into the crowd, and arrested at least five people.
