THE number of Iraqis expecting to still be alive by lunchtime has risen to an all-time high, an upbeat new survey shows.
In a boost to the American-led occupation, 53% said they were confident or quite confident they would make it to the middle of the day without a major attempt on their lives.
However, the figure drops sharply for later in the day, with only 38% expecting to still be alive in time for Newsround.
Sayid al-Qutb, a shopkeeper from Baghdad, said: "Things is much improve since American Bush arrive.
"I used to fear Saddam’s men come in night, kidnap me, put bag on head, then knock down house and plough salt into ground.
"Now when family disappear, it in big boom at supermarket. That much quicker. Much less worry yes?"
He added: "Also when Americans come take me away, they make me stand on bucket with wires attached to penis, but is not plugged in, like with Saddam. It just for laughs. Much improve.
“Now we get Sky+, but not filthy-dirty channel. I watch Premier League. Manchesters United. Much, much better. Still, even with Keegan, Newcastle is being shit, yes?"
