Californians have resorted to budgeting at the ballot box, passing initiatives that mandate how precious dollars must be spent.

FORBES: Move up http://i.forbesimg.com t Move down

As the post-election coalition talks neared their end, Mr Stollmann concluded that the new government would be roaring down the Lafontaine track after all, and he would have precious little chance to change the points from his truncated signal-box.

ECONOMIST: Germany

Ipswich keeper Marton Fulop twice saved from Theo Walcott and Gunners captain Cesc Fabregas failed to convert a cross that dropped invitingly inside the six-yard box, but across the 90 minutes the visitors had precious little to show for their efforts.

BBC: Ipswich 1-0 Arsenal