The Bank of England's outlook for medium-term growth is now the strongest of any forecast it has made since it was granted independence in 1997, in contrast to the downbeat message delivered by governor Mervyn King a week ago

The Queen has signalled the start of a protracted general election campaign by announcing a nakedly political government legislative programme at the state opening of parliament

Decision brings to an end an embarrassing seven-month succession process for the UK broadcaster

The Treasury says a fiscal responsibility bill will reassure financial markets and put pressure on ministers to identify public spending savings, though the Tories view the bill as little more than a gimmick

Mr Balls' allies say the substance of the request for more funds for the Department for Children, Schools and Families was raised in person with Alistair Darling, the chancellor, by Mr Balls before being submitted