As a result of demographic and economic development pressures, North Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia will face major challenges coping with water problems.

FORBES: Water Risk Threatens Businesses, National Security

However, Christine Whitehead, a housing economist at the London School of Economics, is sceptical about Mr Brown's ability to combat the anti-development pressures that are so powerful in southern England.

ECONOMIST: No he can't

The plane maker's income was hurt by the weak dollar, higher research-and-development costs and pricing pressures.

FORBES: Europe Dances To The Cisco Beat