Conservatives embroiled in 'cash for peerages' row
The honours system was branded institutionally corrupt after a House of Lords watchdog raised concerns over donations of more than £7m made by four new Conservative peers

Investigation into postal ballots

Livingstone set for narrow re-election

Leading article: Vote marred by bad experiment and public apathy

Pioneering musician who eased pain of depression at the piano

Ray Charles, the man credited with inventing American soul music, died at his California home last night aged 73

Interest rates rise for second month in row
Homeowners were facing the prospect of higher mortgage bills after the Bank of England raised interest rates for the second month in a row

Jeremy Warner's Outlook: Bank abandons gradualist approach to rates

World news

Gaddafi accused of plot to attack Saudi ruler's motorcade with rocket grenades

G8 fails to write off Africa's debt but promises help for Aids vaccine

Giant panda makes a stunning comeback as new study in China marks 40% rise in numbers

UK news

'Battle of the barbecue' union leader faces credit card accusations

Working-class women 'too proletarian for a Caesarean'

Britain turns into a tornado hotspot with 100 twisters a year

Europe news

Fourth Milan death linked to Satanist rock band

In the ruins of a village destroyed by the SS, French premier tries to end 60 years of hatred

Woman denies part in fatal 'Jackass' stunt

Business

Gent drives off from Vodafone with a Bentley

Bribery and corruption put fresh dent in tarnished image of Shell

Sport

Vieira ready for 'war' with England

Harmison's fire keeps New Zealand within range

Money

Savers find problems in paradise

People

John McEnroe: You Ask The Questions