Gordon Brown today finally signalled that he is ready to take part in a series of television debates with the other main party leaders.

The Scottish National Party won the largest share of the European election vote in Scotland for the first time, beating Labour into second place.

Another 41 new cases of swine flu were confirmed in the UK today, pushing the total number above 400.

Savers have been reassured that their money is safe as the Government was forced to step in to save Scotland's biggest building society.

By Gavin Cordon

Some 371 people are to lose their jobs as the closure of a giant paper mill was announced today.

The Scottish Government was plunged into crisis last night after its £33bn spending plans were thrown out by the Edinburgh parliament.

All eyes are on the US election this week, but closer to home, the by-election in Glenrothes will be important in a British context as a test of the Government's standing and of the strength of the "Brown bounce".

Gordon Brown will campaign in Glenrothes today in his first by-election visit since becoming Prime Minister.

First Minister Alex Salmond has described the Scottish Cup as the "jewel in the crown" of Scotland's Homecoming celebrations after securing a sponsorship partnership with the Scottish Football Association.

Sir David Murray has urged Rangers supporters to pull together in their fight against sectarianism.