The government is resigned to UK banks paying billions of pounds in bonuses, despite its calls to curb the payments, the BBC learns.

Graeme Swann strikes to leave England needing two wickets to seal a 3-1 Ashes victory and their first series win down under since 1986-87.

Officials shut 4,700 farms in Germany amid a scandal over animal feed contaminated with the poisonous chemical dioxin.

Pop singer and songwriter Jessie J comes top of the BBC Sound of 2011 list, which showcases the best rising music stars for the coming year.

Norwich City reject an approach from Burnley for permission to speak to manager Paul Lambert.

England win the final Ashes Test in Sydney by an innings and 83 runs to wrap up the series 3-1 for their first win down under in 24 years.

The terrorist threat level specific to major UK transport hubs has been raised from substantial to severe, the BBC understands.

Plans to axe scores of quangos will not deliver significant savings or improve accountability, MPs warn.