It has called for an end to the practice of officials pre-briefing sections of the media about what is in the Budget on the understanding that it is not published until the statement has been delivered.

BBC: George Osborne warned by MPs over mortgage guarantee risks

Arsenal officials were puzzled by Uefa's stance, having left the pre-match briefing sure that Wenger could send messages to the coaching staff via a third party, in this instance first-team coach Boro Primorac.

BBC: Wenger charged over Udinese game

In a pre-emptive move, the White House has distributed a briefing book to reporters, opinion makers and editorial boards across the country, containing fact sheets, copies of legal documents, and even transcripts of television programs buttressing their position.

CNN: By Jill Dougherty/

The minister was briefing the assembly on the outcome of his review into pre-school admissions arrangements.

BBC: Review of pre-school admissions