Gordon Brown calls for the release of five British hostages in Iraq after claims one of them has taken his own life.

Tory leader David Cameron refuses to reveal whether he would raise taxes if he becomes prime minister.

Welfare reforms to be unveiled - including ending incapacity benefits - will "transform lives", says minister James Purnell.

Gordon Brown announces £30m of British support for the Palestinian Authority for development in the territories.

Surgeons could be rewarded with bonuses for successful operations under a plan being considered by the UK's largest hospital trust.

Four bombs explode near Santander in northern Spain, but there are no reports of casualties.

Halifax Bank of Scotland will reveal on Monday the level of investor demand for new shares in its £4bn rights issue.

Ingrid Betancourt urges Colombia's Farc rebels to free all hostages, as millions march for peace in Colombia and elsewhere.