The UN Security Council extends authorisation for countries to enter Somali waters to stop acts of piracy.

As 2008 turns to 2009 at the end of this month, an extra second will be added to every clock. But who decides exactly what time it is? Professor Brian Cox meets the man in charge of all our timekeeping - the world's director of time.

The BBC's Jonah Fisher takes part in an expedition off the South African coast trying to measure the bite of a Great White shark.

Thai police say protesters occupying Bangkok's airports must leave immediately or face "appropriate measures".

An MP calls for 'reassurance' for a secondary school's pupils, staff and governors after reports it could be placed in special measures by school inspectorate Estyn.

Sending text or downloading data while abroad looks set to get cheaper as Brussels backs caps on roaming charges.

The European Commission unveils an economic recovery plan worth 200bn euros (£170bn) in an attempt to save millions of jobs.

Revealing his plans to head off a long-lasting recession, Chancellor Alastair Darling said these were exceptional times that required exceptional measures. Does he know he's quoting a man who tried to blow up Parliament?

For the first time since it began compiling figures, measurement firm find online spending is down.

US President-elect Barack Obama names more advisers and sets out measures to tackle the ailing economy.

Business groups broadly welcome measures in the pre-Budget report designed to help small firms cope with the economic downturn.

President-elect Barack Obama promises the rapid implementation of measures to stimulate the ailing US economy.

The UK's Climate Change Bill could cost each family in the UK up to £10,000, warns Conservative MP Peter Lilley.

Northern Ireland firms could benefit by up to £86.5m under measures announced by Chancellor Alastair Darling.

Shares rally worldwide after the US bail-out of Citigroup and an economic stimulus package in Britain.

BBC News website readers say how the pre-Budget report will affect them.

Chancellor Alistair Darling cuts VAT but signals future tax rises, with UK borrowing set to soar to record levels.

Tax expert Anne Redston analyses the key measures in the pre-Budget report.

The UK economy is heading for a sharp downturn, pushing the UK budget deficit into territory not seen since the l990s.

Scottish reaction to the Chancellors pre-Budget statement.