Britain's new breed of cidermakers have revived a dying craft - but they say Alistair Darling's tax rise could threaten their success Last year Keith Orchard produced around 10,500 litres (2,300 gallons) of cider and perry, which takes him above the 7,000-litre (1,540-gallon) mark after which duty must be paid. The demand is there - to his embarrassment he ran out of cider and had to turn customers away. But the 10% rise in duty above inflation makes him wonder if he should cut his losses and take production back below 7,000 litres - The Guardian
The Conservatives will promise to block next year's rises in National Insurance, allowing them to fight the general election on a platform of lower taxes than Labour. The multi-billion-pound tax pledge, to be made by David Cameron and George Osborne, is intended to open up "clear blue water" between the parties. Tory insiders said it would form the centrepiece of the Conservative election campaign and make seven out of 10 workers better off - The Telegraph
Hospitals are paying tens of thousands of pounds for police officers to cover accident and emergency departments on Friday and Saturday nights, it has been disclosed. Officers cover A&E across the UK in a bid to prevent violence towards doctors, nurses and other workers, hospital trusts said - The Telegraph
Junk food may be as addictive as heroin and tobacco, a study has shown. Obesity researchers found fatty and sugary snacks trigger the same 'pleasure centres' in the brain that drive people into drug addiction - making them binge on unhealthy food - Daily Mail
Killer drug meow meow is be set to be banned in days after Government advisers give their verdict today. The Advisory Council On The Misuse Of Drugs will recommend to Home Secretary Alan Johnson that it is made Class B, like speed and cannabis - meaning dealers face up to 14 years in prison - The Sun