Planning paper set to further disempower local communities

Gaining permission for major building projects such as airport terminals and power stations would become quicker under government plans. Communities Secretary Ruth Kelly wants to replace large planning inquiries in England with an independent commission. The planning white paper also suggests minor projects like conservatories and home extensions should no longer need planning permission where there is little impact on neighbours.

21 May 2007
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Blair subservient to worst presidency in history, says Jimmy Carter

Former US president Jimmy Carter unleashed a torrent of criticism against George Bush and Tony Blair over the weekend, in which he accused the Bush presidency of being the "worst in history" and said Mr Blair's support had been abominable and subservient. Mr Carter said of the Bush years: "I think as far as the adverse impact on the nation around the world, this administration has been the worst in history."

21 May 2007
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Fears over pricey NHS therapies

The NHS is probably using too many expensive treatments, according to health economists and managers. New drugs are generally only used if they cost under £30,000 for each year of good health they provide. But some claim this is too high and forces potentially more effective care to be ditched due to limited funds.

21 May 2007
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Allergy patients 'failed by NHS'

GPs and pharmacists do not know enough about allergies, putting patients lives at risk, campaigners say. Allergy UK said training on the subject was extremely limited and many people were going undiagnosed. And the pressure group said even when diagnoses were made, medics often had nowhere to send patients as there were limited specialist allergy clinics.

21 May 2007
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£340m package for carer families

Families caring for disabled children are to receive £340m to help improve their lives, Economic Secretary Ed Balls has announced. Over the next three years, money will be spent on improving childcare and support for parents struggling to cope.

21 May 2007
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