From today's UK papers

Blair hints at tax rise

Tony Blair gave his clearest signal yesterday that taxes would have to rise to allow Labour to continue to plough more money into health and education. ( Independent )

Star comedian defends right to ridicule religion

The comedian Rowan Atkinson has attacked David Blunkett's anti-terrorism Bill, claiming it would severely restrict artistic expression and could result in the imprisonment of some comedians. ( Independent )

Alarm over South African Aids crisis

The South African government's handling of Aids came under attack again yesterday, with the publication of a report predicting that the virus will account for a third of all deaths in the country this year. ( Daily Telegraph )

GM crop protesters cleared

Protesters who pulled up genetically modified crops had their convictions quashed in the high court yesterday in a ruling which will make campaigners who destroy GM crops hard to prosecute. ( Guardian )

Businesses to record emails

Under new anti-terrorist legislation revealed by the government yesterday, businesses will be forced to retain records of e-mails and internet usage for 12 months. ( Financial Times )

Government's annual report scrapped

The Government announced last night that it will not continue with its controversial annual report. ( Daily Telegraph )