On the X-ray haloes of the Galaxy and the Local Group and the diffuse softX-ray background

We have extended the spectral modelling of the soft X-ray background (SXRB) using the ROSAT PSPC data along several lines of galactic longitude. Our r esults continue to demonstrate the need for a Galactic halo component, whic h is shown to vary markedly as a function of position. These fluctuations s ignificantly affect the ability to investigate variations in the extragalac tic SXRB below 2 keV. Our conclusions do not support the proposal of an X-r ay halo surrounding the Local Group of galaxies as invoked by Suto et al. ( 1996). Application of the 3 component model to a deep ROSAT observation in the dir ection of the Lockman hole is also discussed.