In the national and international news today: Chancellor Gordon Brown delivers 10th budget; terror suspects up in court; Bush admits troops will be in Iraq another three years.
Chancellor Gordon Brown is preparing to deliver his 10th - and perhaps final - budget this afternoon. With increasing pressure on Tony Blair to step down, it could be a matter of months before Brown steps in as Prime Minister. In his budget speech today, Brown is expected to promise more money in Iraq, more help for single parents to get into work, and higher taxation on fuel for "gas guzzlers" - larger cars that consume more petrol.
In the Old Bailey, seven suspected terrorists - all UK citizens - stand accused of plotting terrorist attacks on locations including trains and pubs. The men, who have connections with Pakistan, deny all charges. The trial is expected to last five months.
Across the Atlantic, George W Bush has conceded that American troops will still be in Iraq by the time he is replaced as President in three years. He said he was "optimistic" about the future of Iraq, although commentators are doubtful his admission will inspire much confidence in the public.
Comments