Acknowledgements

I am indebted to my supervisor, Professor Les Underhill, who contributed to the ideas presented in the thesis. I would also like to thank him for being patient, encouraging, and for the valuable advice, comments and professional guidance. I am also grateful to Dr Trevor Wegner, former Associate Professor at the University of Cape Town, who has contributed significantly to my understanding and appreciation of Statistics. I would also like to thank the following: − Robert Burawundi, Bibo, Todd, my family and friends, whose continued encourage-ment and support is invaluable