The very nature of terrorism means that there is rarely good news to report; all the more reason to savour the moment when there is.

The ceasefire announced by Basque terrorist group ETA is most welcome. It is a sure sign that even the most hardened of terrorist organisations can come to their senses and realise that violence is counter productive whereas peaceful, democratic debate is the only viable way to settle differences of opinion.

ETA still has to prove that they are serious about this ceasefire, and that they are genuinely committed to peace, but nonetheless this is a start