News from the BBC

Ministers attack 'MPs for hire'

Ministers condemn ex-colleagues, including Stephen Byers, for apparently offering to influence government policy for cash.

Union urges BA board to intervene

Unite calls on the British Airways board to resolve the increasingly bitter dispute between the airline and its cabin crew.

Darling says no Budget 'giveaway'

Chancellor Alistair Darling tells the BBC there will be no "giveaways" and no rise in VAT in next Wednesday's Budget.

Democrats 'have votes on health'

Senior Democrats say they are confident they have the votes to pass a landmark healthcare reform bill in the US House of Representatives.

Iraq vote recount calls rejected

Iraq's election commission rejects calls from the president and prime minister for a recount of votes in the general election.