The UK is “sticking to its course” in Afghanistan amid warnings British troops could be killed in reprisal attacks for the killing of 16 civilians by a US soldier, Downing Street said.

Three former UK cabinet ministers have been suspended by the Labour Party over allegations they were prepared to use their position to influence government policy for cash.

Gordon Brown offered an olive branch to X Factor's “Jedward” today, insisting they were “very good” at some things after publicly criticising their singing.

Tony Blair was under pressure today to declare whether he wants to be the first President of Europe – as Downing Street was forced to deny it had ordered official lobbying for him to take up the post.

Northern Ireland Secretary Peter Hain still has the confidence of the British Prime Minister, Downing Street said today, following the launch of an inquiry into whether he or his officials deliberately misled the High Court.

John Hutton will replace David Blunkett as Work and Pensions Secretary, Downing Street said.

British Prime Minister Tony Blair last night apologised to any Iraqi prisoners abused by British soldiers.

Alastair Campbell is to resign as the British government's director of communications and strategy, Downing Street said today.

Coalition forces are making good progress in ousting Saddam Hussein’s regime from Iraq but it is too early to say when the war will be over, Downing Street said tonight.

US President George W Bush yesterday appeared to move forward his war timetable in an attempt to assassinate Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein with cruise missiles and precision-guided bombs.

British Prime Minister Tony Blair will not waver in his policy over Iraq despite suffering the biggest Commons rebellion of his leadership, Downing Street said today.

Saddam Hussein was tonight given two weeks to disarm in what Downing Street called his “last chance” to avert war.

Cherie Blair has been treated in hospital after suffering a miscarriage, Downing Street said.

Northern Ireland Secretary Peter Mandelson was under mounting pressure to quit last night after admitting he asked a fellow minister whether a £1m Millennium Dome donor’s passport application could be reconsidered.