THE United States and South Africa struck a deal yesterday to allow the release of $1.5 billion (€1bn) in frozen Libya funds for humanitarian aid and other civilian needs, UN diplomats said.

Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson was tonight preparing to fly back to Britain after police investigating an alleged indecent assault said there was nothing to stop him leaving South Africa.

France confirmed last night that their Six Nations clash with Wales next week would go ahead despite the ongoing foot and mouth crisis but plans to finish the tournament this season still look in serious doubt.