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The first minister defends his party's plans to impose a limit on the cost of "essential" items.

The prime minister is believed to be absolutely furious over the handling of Lord Mandelson's vetting, Chris Mason writes.

The UK is adopting a "ruthlessly pragmatic" approach to becoming closer to its European neighbours, the UK's EU minister tells the BBC.

It comes after it emerged the peer failed security vetting but the Foreign Office still allowed him to take up the post.

The chancellor was speaking at the end of the International Monetary Fund meeting in Washington.

It follows a report Lord Mandelson failed his security vetting for the role of US ambassador but this was overruled by the Foreign Office.

The cost of "essential" items such as bread, milk and cheese are to be limited under John Swinney's plan.

No 10 says the government is working to ensure "anyone potentially abusing our immigration system is held accountable".

Party leaders each face questions from an audience of voters in Llandudno.

Ministers are considering restricting spot-on treatments and collars to prescriptions from vets and medical professionals.