The final instalment of the sci-fi phenomenon could be poised to break box office records - although at this early stage it is receiving a lukewarm response from critics.

BBC: NEWS | Entertainment | Matrix global release begins

But in June a Republican taskforce set up early this year by the speaker, Newt Gingrich, unveiled its response.

ECONOMIST: Health care

Assistant chief ambulance officer John Pooley, who led the service's response this New Year's Eve, said in the early hours demand was extremely high and a lot of the extra calls were because of alcohol-related injuries.

BBC: London New Year's Eve celebrations: Big rise in patients

And this, in turn, was the response to a challenge from heads of government to come up with an early timetable for joining forces.

ECONOMIST: European armaments