Heron's Eye: 29/10/08

Osborne escapes investigation into donation discussions 29/10/08
“George Osborne will escape a parliamentary investigation into his decision to discuss a possible donation from the Russian billionaire, Oleg Deripaska, the parliamentary standards watchdog said yesterday.

Extinguishing the hopes of Gordon Brown and Labour backbenchers for an investigation into the shadow chancellor's holiday activities, the parliamentary standards commissioner dismissed a complaint that was lodged anonymously. The other body that could conduct such an inquiry - the Electoral Commission - has already said that it will not be investigating the meetings in Corfu.” [Guardian]

Jonathan Ross and Russell Brand suspended by BBC 29/10/08
“The BBC today suspended Jonathan Ross and Russell Brand until an investigation into their prank calls to actor Andrew Sachs has been completed, in an attempt to quell the mounting furore over the "Sachsgate" affair.” [Guardian]

The BBC should admit its mistakes more quickly 29/10/08
Michael White analyses the BBC’s public relations strategies and tactics. [Guardian]

Banking crisis: What questions should the authorities be made to answer? 29/10/08
Jill Treanor on Alistair Darling, Mervyn King and Lord Turner before the Treasury select committee of MPs he chairs on Monday to seek a public explanation to how the taxpayer has ended up needing to pump £37bn into the high street banks. [Guardian]

The markets are clear: Britain is mutton dressed up as lamb
Larry Elliott paints an informative and depressing picture of the British economy. [Guardian]

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