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Gordon Brown just took over from Tony Blair as British prime minister, and just got his first shot across the bow with an attempted car bombing in Piccadilly Circus (above). From what they're saying on Sky News right now, the driver of the Mercedes that carried an explosive device crashed into a Dumpster just as nightclubs in the neighborhood were about to let out for the evening, then jumped out and ran away. They also noted that the anniversary of the 7/7 tube/bus bombings is swiftly approaching, and that this weekend is the big Concert for Diana. Scotland Yard won't comment on reports (which apparently are circulating widely, as I got such reports in my e-mail before I even knew about the story) that in addition to the confirmed gas cannisters in the vehicle, it was also packed with nails for maximum impact.

Of note to me is how the terrorists stepped up to the Mercedes. It attracts less attention from residents who probably expect terrorists to blow up a Dodge Neon, and shows greater cash access than some wayward wannabe terrorist kid crying in his malt vinegar while working at the fish-and-chips stand. Plus, it pretty much rules out the IRA -- no self-respecting Irishman would blow that much money on a demolition vehicle when he could spend it on suds.