Feds threaten to withdraw Lubicon offer

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Ottawa has threatened to withdraw its last offer of $45 million to the Lubicon Indian Band if it isn't soon accepted. A government spokesman Ken Colby said its companies, who have shut down their operations near Little Buffalo, should feel free to resume their activities. "No government can respond to political embarrassment or threats of lawlessness by meeting demand that have no real merit," he said. Operations were shut down by the companies in November after the band threatened to dismantle them. Band adviser Fred Lennarson said Indian Affairs is provoking a fight. Meanwhile, nearby Woodland Cree band members are pondering an offer of land and cash made by Ottawa after three days of talks.