The Liberal Democrats said the use of the voluntary and private sector to help more people back into employment was welcome, "but this must be properly financed, and include provisions to help those with serious problems such as low skills or mental health problems".

BBC: Last Updated: Monday, 5 March 2007, 15:57 GMT

These include doors and windows failing to close properly, or cracks appearing in the foundations of houses.

BBC: Who, What, Why: How are sinkholes formed?

Properly measured, the penalty attached to Barclays' investment-banking strategy should also include the opportunity cost of failing to invest its capital in more profitable businesses, such as retail banking.

ECONOMIST: Barclays and NatWest

The prime minister said troubleshooters would work out a plan of action with families, which could include basic things like getting children to school on time and making sure they were properly fed.

BBC: Troubleshooters scheme to tackle 'troubled families'