But since blanket grade inflation rather than a shift to easier ones is the main force at work, this would have little effect.

ECONOMIST: A-level results

"A 5mm (0.2 inches) particle striking a large solar array is likely to have a very little long-lasting effect, but such an object hitting the main body of a satellite could cause a vital component to fail, " he said.

CNN: Space harpoon plan to nail orbital garbage

One of the main considerations during the committee meetings has been the effect the economic crisis will have on the future of the cohesion policy.

BBC: Debate on the EU cohesion policy