Record-breaking Big Bucks wins fourth World Hurdle March 15, 2012 RECORDS tumbled on day three of the Cheltenham Festival as Big Bucks claimed his fourth World Hurdle crown and equalled the mark for consecutive victories over jumps. The 8-11 favourite stayed on bravely to hold off mare Voler La Vedette and put Paul Nicholls back in the Trainers’ Championship lead. The horse’s triumph brought him [...]
Jose wants Chelsea in the final March 15, 2012 REAL MADRID manager Jose Mourinho admits it would be a dream to face Chelsea in the Champions League but hopes to avoid his old club until the final in May. The prospect of Mourinho, linked with a return to west London following the sacking of Andre Villas-Boas, facing his former employers could be realised at [...]
Hamilton plans fast start to new season March 15, 2012 MCLAREN’S Lewis Hamilton believes the first four grands prix of a crucial year in his Formula One career will not only shape his season but possibly his future in the sport. In the final year of his contract with McLaren, Hamilton vowed last month he would make a decision as to whether he stays or goes [...]
Warburton back for Wales March 15, 2012 RUGBY UNION: Wales Grand Slam hopes have been boosted by the return of captain Sam Warburton for Saturday’s match against France in Cardiff.
Panesar stars again for England March 15, 2012 CRICKET: Five wickets from Monty Panesar and four more from James Anderson ensured England enjoyed a fine start to their tour of Sri Lanka. The tourists bowled a Sri Lanka Board XI out for 169 on day one and were 6-0 at the close in response. Fast bowler Stuart Broad withdrew before the match started [...]
Argentina to sue UK oil groups March 15, 2012 ARGENTINA has given its sternest warning yet that British oil explorers in the Falklands are no longer welcome in what it claims as its sovereign territory – but the UK government says it will back companies’ right to drill. Argentine foreign minister Hector Timerman (pictured) called the activities “illegal” and “illegitimate” at a news conference yesterday. [...]
New iPad launches in UK as Apple stock hits $600 March 15, 2012 APPLE shares touched $600 for the first time yesterday – just one month after reaching the $500 mark – as the feverishly-awaited new iPad today hits the shelves. But only those willing to stand in the notoriously long queues at Apple stores will be able to lay their hands on the latest tablet device, as [...]
Lloyds bows to pressure March 15, 2012 STATE-BACKED Lloyds Banking Group yesterday bowed to political pressure by stripping four former directors, including ex-chief executive Eric Daniels, of their long term incentive plan awards. According to Lloyds’ annual report, the quartet were set to receive shares under the long term incentive plan (LTIP) for the integration of HBOS following its bailout in 2009, [...]
Osborne must be bold and cut taxes March 15, 2012 WILL he – or won’t he? There is mounting speculation today that George Osborne will slash the top 50p tax rate, either back to 40p or possibly to 45p. The move could be preannounced at next week’s Budget or happen as early as the coming tax year. The changes would be accompanied by an increase [...]
WHAT THE OTHER PAPERS SAY THIS MORNING March 15, 2012 FINANCIAL TIMES OSBORNE WEIGHS 50P TAX RATE CUT George Osborne is considering announcing a cut in the 50p top rate of income tax to 45p in his Budget next week, after the Liberal Democrats showed willingness to drop their resistance in return for a clampdown on tax avoidance by wealthy people. THOMAS COOK TURNS DOWN [...]
