He will lead a commission examining constitutional issues, focussing on the union and looking at the next phase for the devolved administration.

BBC: No shocks in Nesbitt reshuffle

The administration is also readying a second phase of the financial bailout program launched by the Bush administration last fall.

CNN: Stimulus will lead to 'disaster,' Republican warns

On Thursday, Japan said it would review the previous administration's plans to phase out the use of nuclear power.

BBC: Japan PM Abe praises Fukushima nuclear work during visit