BBC ON THIS DAY | 23

Rescue operation 1985: Air India jet crashes killing 329

A passenger jet disintegrates in mid-air off the coast of Ireland, killing all 329 people on board.

Mafia boss John Gotti 1992: 'Teflon Don' jailed for life
New York crime boss John Gotti is sentenced to life imprisonment with no chance of parole.

Pope John Paul II and Lech Walesa 1983: Pope meets banned union leader Walesa
Pope John Paul II holds a private meeting with the founder of Solidarity, Lech Walesa, on a visit to Poland.

Queen Elizabeth I 1955: Queen Elizabeth sails on schedule
The Queen Elizabeth ocean liner leaves for New York on schedule despite attempts by striking seamen to delay her departure.

Chancellor Anthony Barber 1972: Chancellor orders pound flotation
The Chancellor, Anthony Barber, announces his decision to temporarily float the pound.