1996: what does it hold in store?

Electronic cash, the return of Slade - and strikes, war against the motor car, and a scandal over Arts Council grants. Our specialists predict

GREEN ISSUES

ANOTHER drought across much of England is on the cards this summer due to well below average rainfall in the autumn and early winter. Expect more rows about leakage rates, high bills, metering and the public's unwillingness to save water.

Friends of the Earth UK and international Greenpeace will celebrate their 25th anniversaries in subdued manner. Tony Blair will make his first speech on the environment, one awaited by all Green groups. It will be intelligent, vague and cautious.

The Government's new Environment Agency will come into being in April, combining the National Rivers Authority, HM Inspectorate of Pollution and the waste-regulation departments of dozens of local councils, it will employ more than 9,000 people.

Globally speaking, it will be a little cooler than 1995, but still a warm one, adding to evidence that man-made climate change is under way.

It will be crucial year for the animal-rights movement andmark a turning point for anti-roads protesters. The biggest battle against a new road is about to begin at Newbury in Berkshire.

The centenary of the motor car will be dogged by anti-car groups.Fresh from trashing the Government's road programme, environmentalists will carry the battle to their enemy: the car.