Responding to Monday's debate, defence procurement minister Peter Luff said no decisions had been made on long-term maintenance contracts but the "main investment decision for support arrangements" would be taken "before the middle of this decade".

BBC: Gordon Brown urges aircraft carrier work at Rosyth

That bill, which is opposed by the Republican majority in the Senate who favor a less comprehensive measure, would allow medical patients to sue their health maintenance organization or insurance company in the event a coverage decision caused direct, documentable harm.

CNN: Bush, Gore stalk stage and each other in final debate

The Conservative-run council said the decision had been made due to constraints on the school budget and high running and maintenance costs.

BBC: Filey School swimming pool closure to go ahead