He added the council had been a barrier to progress on this matter and had also failed to encourage stronger schools to convert to academy status.

BBC: North Yorkshire accuses Gove over schools criticism

The education secretary has described East Sussex County Council as a barrier to the progress of the government's academy programme.

BBC: Michael Gove

"Poor nutrition is driving a literacy and numeracy crisis in developing countries, and is also a huge barrier to further progress in tackling child deaths, " said Jasmine Whitbread, Save the Children International's Chief Executive.

BBC: Child drinks from bowl (file image)

But weakness in airlines stocks remains a barrier to the sort of upside progress that might return the transports to new highs.

FORBES: Samsung Verdict Boosts Membership in Apple's $700 Club