The minimum figure we're talking about is €3 billion.

Lawmakers said a minimum figure of radiation exposure had to be stated to comply with existing legislation, which has alarmed the test veterans.

However, changes to a French Finance Act in December reintroduced a minimum figure of radiation exposure, which the expert now said invalidated some claims.

If a range of casualties was given (eg 10-12), the minimum figure was considered the most reliable.

Instead of requiring tax returns from everyone who earns R350 000 a year, that minimum figure has been increased to R500 000 a year.

"I've got the latest minimum figures, if anyone's interested." Michaelson opened his notebook.

UNICEF says these are minimum figures as access to check in some areas is difficult and cases may be under-reported because of fear.

Official campaign finance records give only minimum figures for how much each donor raised among friends and family (a process known as bundling).