The Chinese authorities have lifted the ban on internet search engine Google.

Although no official announcement has been made, internet chat groups have reported that users are once again able to access the service.

"We are so happy to have it back; it has made my research work so much easier," said one.

According to Associated Press, the move probably follows pressure from businesses that rely on web tools like Google for research.

AltaVista, another US search engine, has remained blocked.

Both companies were targeted by the Chinese government because they do not filter 'subversive' material from their search results.