Money: In Brief

THE ASSOCIATION of Investment Trust Companies has published a free fact sheet on saving for children, and planning for school fees. The guide tries to explain the role of investment trusts and how they can be used. Call 0171-4315222 for a copy.

WOOLWICH HAS raised its rates for new six-month and one-year fixed-rate bonds. Its six-month bond pays 7.4 per cent gross on savings between pounds 500 and pounds 500,000. Monthly interest options are available, paying 7.16 per cent. There is also a one-year bond, paying 8 per cent gross at maturity, or 7.72 if interest is paid monthly. No withdrawals are permitted. Details from Woolwich branches, or call 0800 222200.

J ROTHSCHILD Assurance is launching the 27th edition of its tax guide. The annually updated guide, written by Walter Sinclair, an expert on the subject, has emerged as the foremost reference book on all tax matters. It is published by Orion, and is available from all bookshops at pounds 22.50.

JOHN CHARCOL, the mortgage broking firm, has extended its redemption penalty-free mortgage range. The range now includes two- and five-year fixed and capped home loan options. The five-year fix charges 6.99 per cent until October 2003. The two-year fixed deal charges 6.6 per cent until October 2000. The two-year capped offer, whereby rates will not rise above 6.8 per cent but can fall below this if mortgage rates do, is available at 6.8 per cent.

Six months' free redundancy cover is available. A pounds 300 lender's arrangement fee applies.

Call 0800 718191 for more details.