Britain today: James Murdoch denies e-mail evidence 'mistaken'

NEWS International boss James Murdoch has rejected claims he was "mistaken" in evidence he gave to MPs. Two former senior staff said they had told Mr Murdoch about an e-mail suggesting phone hacking went wider than one rogue reporter. Mr Murdoch told a Commons committee he was unaware of the e-mail.

Tax fears for business

The biggest concerns for businesses in the next six months are currency fluctuations and tax burdens, according to a new report.

Six out of 10 expect an increase in profits in the financial year ahead, although many said they had made cost-cutting a priority after weathering the recession.

Call to ban Planet of the Apes-style experiments

Action is needed now to prevent nightmarish Planet of the Apes science ever turning from fiction to fact, a group of experts have warned.

Their report calls for new rules to supervise sensitive research that involves humanising animals. One area of concern is "Category Three" experiments which may raise "very strong ethical concerns" and should be banned. An example given is the creation of primates with distinctly human characteristics - such as speech.

Prince's roving role over

The Duke of York is to step down from his role as the UK's roving business ambassador, Buckingham Palace has confirmed. He is giving up the post following intense scrutiny earlier this year over his relationships with a series of controversial figures, including a convicted paedophile. The Duke states on his website that he will continue to develop his role in support of UK businesses.

Tributes as artist Freud dies

The art world has paid tribute to artist Lucian Freud, who has died aged 88 after an illness.

Sir Nicholas Serota, director of the Tate gallery, said Freud, famous for his paintings of nudes, had a unique place in the pantheon of late 20th century art.

Stockport: A staff nurse was facing more police questions today after the number of deaths linked to a probe into tampered medication at Stepping Hill hospital rose to five. Police have until 9.05pm to question Rebecca Leighton, 27, who was arrested on suspicion of murder.

Devon: Retail giant John Lewis is to create thousands of new jobs next year by opening new-style stores around the country, starting in Exeter. The company said it had identified at least ten areas of the UK for the new stores which were not suitable for a large, traditional branch.