UK TV watchdog Ofcom has launched an investigation into whether 'X Factor' judge Tulisa Contostavlos has breached broadcasting rules by promoting her brand of perfume on the hit show.

British retailer Peacock today said the discount end of the clothing market was holding up well despite a growing reluctance of shoppers to splash out on fashion.

British perfume retailer Merchant Retail today posted a 15% hike in half-yearly profits to £3.6m (€5.1m) despite a period of “great uncertainty” in which it decided to pull the plug on its department stores.