Good morning! Morning Minutes is a round-up of stories that will break on Tuesday, Dec 1, and which we think you'd be interested in.

It appears on weekdays, available by 7am.

JAPAN TO DISPATCH WHALING FLEET

Japan is expected to dispatch a whaling fleet to the Antarctic today (Dec 1) after a one-year suspension, defying international criticism and a UN legal ruling that the "research" expedition is a commercial hunt in disguise. Conservation group Sea Shepherd Australia said it would use its own ship to follow the mission, which Japan's Fisheries Agency said in a statement on Monday (Nov 30) would aim to kill a total of 333 minke whales.

"I HAVE HIV, WILL YOU EAT WITH ME?" EVENT AT TAN TOCK SENG HOSPITAL

Some HIV patients here say that when others learn of their condition, they are afraid to eat with them. In line with World Aids Day on Tuesday (Dec 1), Tan Tock Seng Hospital is having a public education event "I have HIV, will you eat with me?" which aims to lessen the stigma of HIV and correct misconceptions - it is safe to share meals with someone who has HIV, for instance. The event will feature an exhibition showcasing patients' stories, as well as performances by volunteers. - LINETTE LAI

MARKIT TO RELEASE LATEST PURCHASING MANAGERS' INDEX DATA

Global financial information provider Markit will release the latest purchasing managers' index data on some Asian markets today (Dec 1). They include China, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia and India. - CHIA YAN MIN

SINGAPORE PRESS HOLDINGS TO HOLD ANNUAL MEETING FOR SHAREHOLDERS

Singapore Press Holdings is holding its annual general meeting for shareholders this morning. - CHONG KOH PING