Archive of articles from 2009

Germany threatens to wreck Lisbon treaty

British Eurosceptics are looking to Germany's highest court for an opportunity to scupper the Lisbon Treaty today, with judges hearing a case on the constitutionality of the project.

Bankers: We're sorry

Face to face with the Treasury committee

Four of the men at the centre of the British banking crisis have "unreservedly" apologised while appearing before MPs.

Standards commissioner rejects Smith complaint

The parliamentary standards commissioner has rejected a request to investigate the expenses situation of home secretary Jacqui Smith.

Ex-RBS chief 'should lose knighthood'

RBS' Sir Fred Goodwin before Treasury commitee today

Former RBS boss Sir Fred Goodwin should have his knighthood revoked, an MP has said.

MPs rally to end beer tax

More than 100 MPs have signed up to a campaign calling on the government to axe plans to increase beer tax in this year's budget.

EU carbon capture plan draws criticism

A European Commission decision to fund carbon capture technology at Kingsnorth power station has provoked angry responses from green groups.

MoD 'needs veterans' ombudsman'

Service personnel deserve ombudman, Marsha Singh says

A Labour MP will call on the government to introduce a veteran's ombudsman to deal with disputes between service personnel and the Ministry of Defence.

Balls: Crisis more extreme than 1930's

The financial crisis is more extreme than that of the 1930's, Ed Balls has said.

Hain hits back at Electoral Commission

Peter Hain, former work and pensions secretary

Peter Hain, the Cabinet secretary forced to resign following a donations scandal, has hit back at the Electoral Commission as "incompetent" and unaccountable.