Mr Redman said the company was making the announcement now to provide "clarity on the future of the business before the Christmas holidays".

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The Home Office said told BBC News Online this announcement was designed to provide a "statutory framework" for and impose "further restrictions" on existing powers.

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Independent MLA Jim Allister wanted to know if this announcement was designed to provide a "soft landing" for what was intended to be a permanent decision to close the City accident and emergency department.

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Germany's move is in contrast to Monday's announcement from Denmark that it will provide unlimited guarantees to savers.

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The Bank of China made the announcement in a statement but did not provide further details.

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An announcement is expected this year and that will provide guidelines for submitting an application.

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Ms Parrott also welcome the announcement of the Youth Contract Scheme which will provide help for young unemployed people.

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Maybe the announcement of full results for the quarter will provide some clarity.

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Microsoft did not provide details on pricing or a final release schedule during the announcement.

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Mr Pickles used the announcement to give a veiled warning to councils - which have a statutory duty to provide an efficient bin service - that do not have weekly collections.

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