We couldn't get hold of our contacts in Tibet this morning. The Chinese authorities have blocked all information from getting out. It looks as thought they've brought down all internet connections and cut the phone lines, or at least mobile services. This is how they start controlling information.

Firstly, they play on fear. The Tibetan people know that to release a photo, or even make a call abroad, can get them thrown straight into jail. Even under normal circumstances they can be arrested for owning a picture of the Dalai Lama.

Then, they take complete control over the internet and telephones. To enter a cybercafé in Tibet you have to hand over proof of identity. Same to buy a phone card. And in any case the lines are tapped. It's happened to me sometimes- I've heard Chinese police in the background when I'm phoning a contact. They wouldn't hide it; they want to intimidate you.

The most depressing thing is when the media asks for evidence of the repression going on in Lhasa. And it's impossible to give any. There are loads of rumours. Particularly about the police firing at the demonstrators. Also about a 16-year-old girl that was killed. But we've got nothing to prove it."