There was also the possibility of setting up a special "bad bank" to take on the "toxic debts" of nationalised banks such as Northern Rock - which could eventually be sold on by the government when market conditions improve.

BBC: Clegg proposes 'government bank'

Besides the unsightly effects that many mines have on the landscape, they usually churn out vast quantities of toxic waste in the form of acidic drainage-water and tailings the fine particles of rock produced when ore is ground down to release the minerals it contains.

ECONOMIST: Mine pollution