News from the BBC

Interest rates hit all-time low

The Bank of England cuts rates to 1.5%, the lowest level in its 315-year history, as it continues efforts to help the economy.

Israel accused over Gaza wounded

The Red Cross accuses Israel of failing to help wounded civilians in Gaza, after finding children clinging to their mothers' corpses.

Nissan plant to shed 1,200 jobs

Wearside car plant Nissan is to axe around 1,200 jobs - about a quarter of its workforce - blaming the economic downturn.

SFO opens UK Madoff investigation

The Serious Fraud Office says it is to open an inquiry into US broker Bernard Madoff's business operations in the UK.

US to lead new anti-pirate force

The US will lead a new international force to combat piracy off the coast of Somalia, the US navy says.