Latest UK news

Blunkett unveils cuddly Labour's education manifesto
Secretary of state for education David Blunkett was unveiling Labour’s education manifesto at Southampton University today. Meanwhile, prime minister Tony Blair got a hug from student Jo Balchin, despite her complaints that higher education policies were driving some students into prostitution and drug dealing.

Need for glasses is down to genes
The need to wear glasses is mostly inherited, according to research by the Twin Research Unit at St Thomas’ Hospital in London. Genes are responsible for 85 per cent of cases of short and long-sightedness and 50 per cent of instances of astigmatism. A team hopes to identify some of the genes involved.

Three men questioned over Huntingdon attack
Three men were today being questioned in connection with an attack in February on Brian Cass, head of Huntingdon Life Sciences in Cambridgeshire, police said.

Clinton launches Ulster scholarship
Former US president Bill Clinton has launched a W. J. Clinton scholarship at Ulster University’s Magee College. The scheme will allow local pupils from disadvantaged groups to enter UU degree courses. He is also to receive an honorary law degree from Queen’s University, Belfast.