If the ECB gives the impression that it will do the minimum to abate the bond-market panic, it would increase the pressure on Italy's politicians to support a reform-minded cabinet and to push through the right policies quickly.

ECONOMIST: The European Central Bank

He points to Philip Hampton - who replaced Robert Brace as finance director, late last year - and says the time is right for both of them to push through radical changes.

BBC: Can Bland revive BT?

The package of spending cuts and tax reforms that he is striving, right now, to push through parliament is a good one.

ECONOMIST: The price of an icon | The