Fine Gael TDs will not be allowed to vote with their conscience on any proposed legislation on abortion, the Taoiseach said.

The Government could explore four separate options on new abortion laws, including one in which responsibility for decisions could be taken by the Medical Council.

Fine Gael leader Enda Kenny has vowed to lead a moral government as he launched his party manifesto and accused Fianna Fáil of not knowing right from wrong.

British taxpayers could be forced to pay £2bn (€3.2bn ) in compensation to people affected by night flights out of Heathrow airport, it was reported today.

A man whose son was gunned down by the IRA in retaliation for the killing of eight of its members in Loughgall is standing in the local government elections, it emerged today.