Much discussion -- and a deep and genuine sense of revulsion -- in the newsroom this afternoon over the murder in Iraq of aid worker, Margaret Hassan.

Several colleagues had met and interviewed her during visits to Iraq and spoke of her dedication, humanity and bravery.

I hesitate to call her killing a "new low" as there have been so many disgusting acts of brutality -- but to shoot at point blank range a woman who has devoted her entire adult life to improving the lives of ordinary Iraqis is repugnant beyond words.

During conversations with colleagues one sentiment kept recurring -- "thank God she was shot and not beheaded."

It's an indication of how desensitised we're becoming to unimaginable brutality that a single gunshot to head can be regarded as "better" or "more merciful" than a knife to the throat.