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Politics live blog: David Cameron's speech on roads and peers debate health bill Politics live blog: David Cameron's speech on roads and peers debate health bill
(40 minutes later)
3.45pm: The Labour SO24 emergency debate on the health bill will not hold up the legislation for long. According to Commons sources, MPs will still debate the health bill tomorrow (assuming that it clears the Lords this evening). The Burnham debate will only hold up that process by about 90 minutes.
3.41pm: Earlier (see 9.00am) I said that Bercow would be spluttering into his cornflakes about the number pre-budget leaks coming out of the government. This afternoon he seems to have secured his revenge.
3.40pm: The SO24 debate will take place tomorrow, Bercow says. It will last 90 minutes.
3.39pm: John Bercow is allowing the SO24 debate.
That means there will be an emergency debate tomorrow, and the health bill will be temporarily delayed.
3.35pm: Andy Burnham says there should be a debate on whether to postpone the final stages of the health bill until the risk register has been published.
MPs are in the "highly unsatisfactory position" of not being in possession of all the information, he says.
The establish the scale of the risks involved, Labour's John Healey applied using the Freedom of Infomation Act for the transition risk register to be published.
The information commissioner backed this call, he says. And the information tribunal also said the risk register should be published.
The government still has not responded substantially to this ruling, he says.
It can appeal, but only on points of law.
This is about the primacy of the Commons, he says.

Parliament has a right to know before it is asked to make a final judgment that will have huge implications for everyone in this country.
If the Commons were to allow the bill to become law without the register being published, that would weaken its power as a scrutinising body.
3.30pm: Andy Burnham, the shadow health secretary, is about to make his SO24 application for an emergency debate on the NHS risk register.
3.21pm: My colleague Polly Curtis has been looking at David Cameron's plan to semi-privatise the roads on her Reality Check blog. She wanted to know whether it would work. Here's her verdict.
The announcement that the government intends to lease motorways and major trunk roads in England and Wales for extended periods appears to amount to a major expansion of the PFI scheme, despite the government's previous promises to overhaul such schemes after evidence that they have been costly and inefficient. Last year the Treasury select committee urged the government to wean itself off PFI, which it said ministers in successive governments had become addictive to because it allows them to invest in infrastructure but keep the costs off the balance sheet. Under pressure to come up with major infrastructure projects to aid the economic recover, it appears that the Treasury is failing to heed those warnings.
3.03pm: The growing number of school pupils who do not speak English as their native language is not damaging the prospects of their fellow classmates who are native English speakers, according to a report out today.
It's from the Centre for Economics of Education and you can read the 44-page report here (pdf). Here's an extract from their news release.

The study by Dr Sandra McNally and colleagues finds that an increased presence of children who do not speak English as their first language is not detrimental to the educational attainment of native English speakers.
Indeed, evidence from Catholic schools attended by the children of Polish immigrants suggests that the presence of non-native English speakers might – in some cases, at least – have a positive effect on natives' results.
The proportion of non-native English speakers in primary schools in England has increased by a third to around 12% over the past 10 years. This has led some commentators to fear a detrimental impact on native English speakers as teachers' time is taken up helping children who do not speak English as a first language.
Yet several studies have shown that first and second generation immigrants are, on average, better educated than the native population. This suggests that there might be things about the children of immigrants – such as having better educated parents – that can compensate for any lack of language fluency at an early age. In that case, native English speakers would not necessarily suffer from having such children as their peers.
The study found that there was a "modest negative correlation" between the number of pupils in a group without English as their native language and the educational performance of the native English speakers. But this correlation disappears when you take into account the background of pupils and the types of school they attend.
In fact, there is some evidence that native English speakers do better at maths the more non-native speakers they have in their group, the study concludes. "Possible reasons for this result include the fact that immigrants from East European countries are better educated and more attached to the labour market than the native population," the news release says. "The children of such immigrants may be a welcome influence in the schools they attend."
2.55pm: In his speech David Cameron announced an extra £150m for the Get Britain Building Fund. (See 1.10pm.) The Department for Communities has now put out a news release saying where some of the money in this fund is being spent.2.55pm: In his speech David Cameron announced an extra £150m for the Get Britain Building Fund. (See 1.10pm.) The Department for Communities has now put out a news release saying where some of the money in this fund is being spent.
2.45pm: Here's some more reaction to the minimum wage announcement. (See 10.35am.)2.45pm: Here's some more reaction to the minimum wage announcement. (See 10.35am.)
From Ian Murray, the shadow business ministerFrom Ian Murray, the shadow business minister

Youth unemployment is at the highest rate since records began, with over a million young people unable to find work. So it is disappointing that the only response from this out of touch government to the job crisis facing our young people is to impose a real terms cut to their wages.

Youth unemployment is at the highest rate since records began, with over a million young people unable to find work. So it is disappointing that the only response from this out of touch government to the job crisis facing our young people is to impose a real terms cut to their wages.
This is the first time that the development rate for young people will not rise. The Low Pay Commission's recommendation represents a vote of no-confidence in the government's handling of the economy and the prospects for recovery.This is the first time that the development rate for young people will not rise. The Low Pay Commission's recommendation represents a vote of no-confidence in the government's handling of the economy and the prospects for recovery.
From John Walker, national chairman of the Federation of Small BusinessesFrom John Walker, national chairman of the Federation of Small Businesses
WW
e support the Low Pay Commission's underlying thinking that the priority must be to ensure young workers get employment and that the rates for these workers should remain unchanged until the economy picks up.e support the Low Pay Commission's underlying thinking that the priority must be to ensure young workers get employment and that the rates for these workers should remain unchanged until the economy picks up.
However, we would have supported a larger increase in the apprentices rate, both in recognition of the value apprenticeships can have for firms and to encourage more young workers to enter into these schemes.However, we would have supported a larger increase in the apprentices rate, both in recognition of the value apprenticeships can have for firms and to encourage more young workers to enter into these schemes.
From Katja Hall, the CBI's chief policy directorFrom Katja Hall, the CBI's chief policy director

Businesses will welcome the approach taken to this year's national minimum wage rates. The moderate rise in the adult rate and the freeze in the youth rates will come as a relief to the many hard-pressed firms right across the country.

Businesses will welcome the approach taken to this year's national minimum wage rates. The moderate rise in the adult rate and the freeze in the youth rates will come as a relief to the many hard-pressed firms right across the country.
2.10pm: Here's a lunchtime summary.2.10pm: Here's a lunchtime summary.
• David Cameron has strongly hinted that he favours building a new airport in the south of England. In a wide-ranging speech on infrastructure, in which he said that he wanted to leave an infrastructure legacy on par with that left by the Victorians, he said he was "not blind to the need to increase airport capacity, particularly in the south-east". Pointing out that the coalition agreement specifically rules out extra runways at Gatwick or Stanstead, Greenpeace said this was a U-turn. This is from Joss Garman, a senior Greenpeace campaigner.
• David Cameron has strongly hinted that he favours building a new airport in the south of England. In a wide-ranging speech on infrastructure, in which he said that he wanted to leave an infrastructure legacy on par with that left by the Victorians, he said he was "not blind to the need to increase airport capacity, particularly in the south-east". Pointing out that the coalition agreement specifically rules out extra runways at Gatwick or Stanstead, Greenpeace said this was a U-turn. This is from Joss Garman, a senior Greenpeace campaigner.
The prime minister's totemic U-turn this morning has no mandate. Before the election he told voters he would refuse permission for new runways at Gatwick, Heathrow and Stansted, now nothing's changed except he has caved in to lobbying by the aviation industry.The prime minister's totemic U-turn this morning has no mandate. Before the election he told voters he would refuse permission for new runways at Gatwick, Heathrow and Stansted, now nothing's changed except he has caved in to lobbying by the aviation industry.


• Vince Cable, the business secretary, has announced that the minimum wage will be frozen for under-21s.
The rate for adults will go up by 11p an hour. Dave Prentis, the Unison general secretary, said: "While the chancellor looks set to cut income tax for the very richest, those at the bottom of the pay pile do not have enough to live on. An extra 11p an hour is simply not enough. Millions of workers need a living wage of £8 an hour to cope with rising prices and keep them out of poverty."


• Vince Cable, the business secretary, has announced that the minimum wage will be frozen for under-21s.
The rate for adults will go up by 11p an hour. Dave Prentis, the Unison general secretary, said: "While the chancellor looks set to cut income tax for the very richest, those at the bottom of the pay pile do not have enough to live on. An extra 11p an hour is simply not enough. Millions of workers need a living wage of £8 an hour to cope with rising prices and keep them out of poverty."
• Andy Burnham, the shadow health secretary, has said that he will try to call an emergency Commons debate on the NHS risk register. Using the standing order 24 procedure, he will ask John Bercow, the Speaker, to grant a debate on the government's plan to pass the health bill without publishing the risk register. He will make the application in a short speech at about 3.30pm today. The Speaker will decide whether to grant an SO24. In the Lords peers will soon be starting the bill's third reading debate. My colleague Randeep Ramesh is covering all the detail on his health bill live blog.

• Simon Hughes, the Lib Dem deputy leader, has said that he will support the budget if it ensures that the wealthy pay more in tax.
He made the comment on the World at One.
• Andy Burnham, the shadow health secretary, has said that he will try to call an emergency Commons debate on the NHS risk register. Using the standing order 24 procedure, he will ask John Bercow, the Speaker, to grant a debate on the government's plan to pass the health bill without publishing the risk register. He will make the application in a short speech at about 3.30pm today. The Speaker will decide whether to grant an SO24. In the Lords peers will soon be starting the bill's third reading debate. My colleague Randeep Ramesh is covering all the detail on his health bill live blog.

• Simon Hughes, the Lib Dem deputy leader, has said that he will support the budget if it ensures that the wealthy pay more in tax.
He made the comment on the World at One.
I am clear that if I can, after the chancellor sits down, go to my constituents and show that the one in 100 people in my constituency and everywhere else who are paying considerably more, I don't mean a few pence more, I mean really contributing the amount they should, not having the ability to avoid taxes, then I can look my constituents in the eye and say this is a good budget for us.I am clear that if I can, after the chancellor sits down, go to my constituents and show that the one in 100 people in my constituency and everywhere else who are paying considerably more, I don't mean a few pence more, I mean really contributing the amount they should, not having the ability to avoid taxes, then I can look my constituents in the eye and say this is a good budget for us.
• Tony Blair has said that Africa could end its dependence on aid within a generation. Seperately, in a joint interview with the Liberian president, who defended a law banning homosexual acts, Blair declined to answer questions about whether or not he agreed.• Tony Blair has said that Africa could end its dependence on aid within a generation. Seperately, in a joint interview with the Liberian president, who defended a law banning homosexual acts, Blair declined to answer questions about whether or not he agreed.
• The Leveson inquiry has been told that the News of the World "jeopardised" the hunt for the Ipswich serial killer in 2006 after it hired former special forces soldiers to follow a police surveillance team tracking suspects.• The Leveson inquiry has been told that the News of the World "jeopardised" the hunt for the Ipswich serial killer in 2006 after it hired former special forces soldiers to follow a police surveillance team tracking suspects.
• Brian Paddick, the Lib Dem candidate for London mayor, has said that Boris Johnson should be made to give evidence to the Leveson inquiry about the way his deputy, Kit Malthouse, repeatedly questioned the resources the police were devoting to the phone hacking inquiry. "If Boris Johnson has nothing to hide then he should have no fear of explaining himself to the inquiry," Paddick said. "Senior figures from across journalism, politics and the police have appeared before Leveson so there is no reason Boris Johnson should not."• Brian Paddick, the Lib Dem candidate for London mayor, has said that Boris Johnson should be made to give evidence to the Leveson inquiry about the way his deputy, Kit Malthouse, repeatedly questioned the resources the police were devoting to the phone hacking inquiry. "If Boris Johnson has nothing to hide then he should have no fear of explaining himself to the inquiry," Paddick said. "Senior figures from across journalism, politics and the police have appeared before Leveson so there is no reason Boris Johnson should not."
• Labour have urged Dominic Grieve, the attorney general, to bring contempt of court proceedings against the private contractor awarded a monopoly to provide interpreters to all courts in England and Wales.• Labour have urged Dominic Grieve, the attorney general, to bring contempt of court proceedings against the private contractor awarded a monopoly to provide interpreters to all courts in England and Wales.
1.10pm: The text from Number 10 (which is not available on its website yet) is headlined "Prime Minister's Speech on Infrastructure". It's hard to think of any speech given this year with a more boring title. But actually Cameron's speech is a biggie, because it sets out an ambitious vision for the future. And it's Britain as Shangai: a high-tech world of extra airports new roads, new cities. Or, to put it bluntly, more concrete and broadband. Cameron paid lip service to protecting the Green Belt, but in his speech he was firmly on the side of developers. "There's nothing green about a traffic jam - and gridlock holds the economy back," he said. That is not to say this will all materialise. It is easier to set out a vision than to make it happen, and Cameron was already sounding defensive about his road funding scheme by the time he got to the Q&A. (Remember, public opposition killed Labour's plans to extend road charging.) But, nevertheless, this was big stuff.1.10pm: The text from Number 10 (which is not available on its website yet) is headlined "Prime Minister's Speech on Infrastructure". It's hard to think of any speech given this year with a more boring title. But actually Cameron's speech is a biggie, because it sets out an ambitious vision for the future. And it's Britain as Shangai: a high-tech world of extra airports new roads, new cities. Or, to put it bluntly, more concrete and broadband. Cameron paid lip service to protecting the Green Belt, but in his speech he was firmly on the side of developers. "There's nothing green about a traffic jam - and gridlock holds the economy back," he said. That is not to say this will all materialise. It is easier to set out a vision than to make it happen, and Cameron was already sounding defensive about his road funding scheme by the time he got to the Q&A. (Remember, public opposition killed Labour's plans to extend road charging.) But, nevertheless, this was big stuff.
Here's a summary.

• Cameron insisted that his plan to get private investors to fund road improvements was "not about mass tolling".
Downing Street briefed this proposal yesterday and Cameron seemed concerned about the largely-negative press reaction. (The Sun has got a leader saying the idea will "drive car owners to tears".) Cameron did not rule out extending tolls, but he suggested that the main thrust of his plan involved funding private sector investment in roads with money that motorists already pay through road taxes.
Here's a summary.

• Cameron insisted that his plan to get private investors to fund road improvements was "not about mass tolling".
Downing Street briefed this proposal yesterday and Cameron seemed concerned about the largely-negative press reaction. (The Sun has got a leader saying the idea will "drive car owners to tears".) Cameron did not rule out extending tolls, but he suggested that the main thrust of his plan involved funding private sector investment in roads with money that motorists already pay through road taxes.
Let me be clear: this is not about mass tolling – and as I've said, we're not tolling existing roads. It's about getting more out of the money that motorists already pay.Let me be clear: this is not about mass tolling – and as I've said, we're not tolling existing roads. It's about getting more out of the money that motorists already pay.
• He strongly hinted that he favours building a new airport in the south of England. Although ministers have already said that they will consider the case for a so-called "Boris Island" airport in the Thames estuary (as championed by Boris Johnson), Cameron has never sounded as positive about the idea as he did today.• He strongly hinted that he favours building a new airport in the south of England. Although ministers have already said that they will consider the case for a so-called "Boris Island" airport in the Thames estuary (as championed by Boris Johnson), Cameron has never sounded as positive about the idea as he did today.
I'm not blind to the need to increase airport capacity, particularly in the south-east ... We need to retain our status as a key global hub for air travel. Not just a feeder route to bigger airports elsewhere, in Frankfurt, Amsterdam or Dubai.I'm not blind to the need to increase airport capacity, particularly in the south-east ... We need to retain our status as a key global hub for air travel. Not just a feeder route to bigger airports elsewhere, in Frankfurt, Amsterdam or Dubai.
Yes, this will be controversial.Yes, this will be controversial.
We will need to take decisions for the long-term – and we will be bringing forward options in our aviation strategy, which will include an examination of the pros and cons of a new airport in the Thames estuary.We will need to take decisions for the long-term – and we will be bringing forward options in our aviation strategy, which will include an examination of the pros and cons of a new airport in the Thames estuary.
Cameron said the aviation strategy would be published in the next few months.Cameron said the aviation strategy would be published in the next few months.
• He suggested that the government's planning reforms could pave the way for the creation of a new generation of garden cities.• He suggested that the government's planning reforms could pave the way for the creation of a new generation of garden cities.

In the last century, private and social enterprise also created places like Hampstead Garden Suburb, Letchworth and Welwyn Garden City - not perfect, but popular - green, planned, secure, with gardens, places to play and characterful houses; not just car-dominated concrete grids.

In the last century, private and social enterprise also created places like Hampstead Garden Suburb, Letchworth and Welwyn Garden City - not perfect, but popular - green, planned, secure, with gardens, places to play and characterful houses; not just car-dominated concrete grids.
Yes we need more housing, but sprawling over the countryside isn't the answer.Yes we need more housing, but sprawling over the countryside isn't the answer.
We absolutely must protect our Green Belts and National Parks. But we also urgently need to find places where we are prepared to allow significant new growth to happen.We absolutely must protect our Green Belts and National Parks. But we also urgently need to find places where we are prepared to allow significant new growth to happen.
That's why we will begin consultation later this year on how to apply the principles of garden cities to areas with high potential growth, in places people want to liveThat's why we will begin consultation later this year on how to apply the principles of garden cities to areas with high potential growth, in places people want to live


• He said George Osborne would use his budget to announce plans for 10 "super-connected cities" which will have access to ultra-fast 100Mb broadband.
This will make them "some of the fastest and best connected cities in the world", he said. Cameron said this was necessary because Britain is "falling behind" countries like South Korea and Japan in the provision of high-speed broadband (although that has not stopped researchers claiming today that Britain has the largest internet economy of any G20 country).


• He said George Osborne would use his budget to announce plans for 10 "super-connected cities" which will have access to ultra-fast 100Mb broadband.
This will make them "some of the fastest and best connected cities in the world", he said. Cameron said this was necessary because Britain is "falling behind" countries like South Korea and Japan in the provision of high-speed broadband (although that has not stopped researchers claiming today that Britain has the largest internet economy of any G20 country).
• He said Osborne would allocate another £150m in the budget to the Get Britain Building Fund.• He said Osborne would allocate another £150m in the budget to the Get Britain Building Fund.
• He said the government would significanly reduce mobile phone black holes by 2015.

• He reaffirmed his commitment to building a new generation of nuclear power stations.
• He said the government would significanly reduce mobile phone black holes by 2015.

• He reaffirmed his commitment to building a new generation of nuclear power stations.
• He admitted that Britain's railways were very poor.• He admitted that Britain's railways were very poor.
Our railways are crowded and expensive – compared to the French, Dutch and Swiss railways our fares are 30% higher, our running costs 40% higher and our public subsidy is double.Our railways are crowded and expensive – compared to the French, Dutch and Swiss railways our fares are 30% higher, our running costs 40% higher and our public subsidy is double.
You have to admit, it's something of a miracle to achieve high fares, big subsidies and poor performance – all at the same time.You have to admit, it's something of a miracle to achieve high fares, big subsidies and poor performance – all at the same time.
• He said that Britain's planning system was "unbelievably slow" and that Britain should learn from China's approach to planning.• He said that Britain's planning system was "unbelievably slow" and that Britain should learn from China's approach to planning.
It will take at least fourteen years for the first section of High Speed Two to open.It will take at least fourteen years for the first section of High Speed Two to open.
Compare that to Stephenson's London to Birmingham railway in 1838.Compare that to Stephenson's London to Birmingham railway in 1838.
It was the world's first major inter-city railway, built in just five amazing years from the application to parliament to the first through train.It was the world's first major inter-city railway, built in just five amazing years from the application to parliament to the first through train.
The kind of things we did almost 200 years ago, China does today.The kind of things we did almost 200 years ago, China does today.
And that matters.And that matters.
Because we're not just up against old world economies with old world infrastructure.Because we're not just up against old world economies with old world infrastructure.
We face new competitors who can leap ahead of us and install completely modern infrastructure from scratch.We face new competitors who can leap ahead of us and install completely modern infrastructure from scratch.
• He said British pensions funds would invest £2bn in infrastructure projects by 2013.• He said British pensions funds would invest £2bn in infrastructure projects by 2013.
12.31pm: That was a particularly well-written speech. And, even though Cameron sounded more cautious than you would expect when taking questions about his road funding plans (he kept stressing that it was just a proposal, and that there were a lot of questions to be addressed), overall he was trying to sound visionary. And what exactly is that vision? More concrete, essentially. I'll post a proper summary shortly.12.31pm: That was a particularly well-written speech. And, even though Cameron sounded more cautious than you would expect when taking questions about his road funding plans (he kept stressing that it was just a proposal, and that there were a lot of questions to be addressed), overall he was trying to sound visionary. And what exactly is that vision? More concrete, essentially. I'll post a proper summary shortly.
12.26pm: Cameron is still taking questions.12.26pm: Cameron is still taking questions.
Q: Will there by any tolls on existing roads if they expand?Q: Will there by any tolls on existing roads if they expand?
Cameron says he is only talking about tolls for "new capacity". He cites the A14 as an example. The expansion of the A14 could be funded by tolls.Cameron says he is only talking about tolls for "new capacity". He cites the A14 as an example. The expansion of the A14 could be funded by tolls.
But he says the plan to use the charges that people already pay through road tax as a way of funding new construction is the significant proposal that he's announcing. Tolls are "at the margin", he says.But he says the plan to use the charges that people already pay through road tax as a way of funding new construction is the significant proposal that he's announcing. Tolls are "at the margin", he says.
That's it. Sky and BBC News have both given up on their coverage of Cameron taking questions.That's it. Sky and BBC News have both given up on their coverage of Cameron taking questions.
12.23pm: More questions.12.23pm: More questions.
Q: Why won't you let Heathrow expand?Q: Why won't you let Heathrow expand?
Cameron says the government will produce an avaition paper in the next few months. It will look at the case for an estuary airport and see whether the case "stacks up".Cameron says the government will produce an avaition paper in the next few months. It will look at the case for an estuary airport and see whether the case "stacks up".
Q: Is the water industry that good a model?Q: Is the water industry that good a model?
Cameron says Britain cannot carry on as it is now. The water industry is not perfect. But everyone knows that since water privatisation there has been massive investment in infrastructure.Cameron says Britain cannot carry on as it is now. The water industry is not perfect. But everyone knows that since water privatisation there has been massive investment in infrastructure.
12.17pm: Cameron is now taking questions.12.17pm: Cameron is now taking questions.
Q: Why are you scared of road tolling?Q: Why are you scared of road tolling?
For new roads there is a good case for tolling, he says. But for existing roads he is planning something different. He cites the water industry, and says that water privatisation enabled "massive investment" to take place. The government's review will look at a "regulated utility model" for the roads.For new roads there is a good case for tolling, he says. But for existing roads he is planning something different. He cites the water industry, and says that water privatisation enabled "massive investment" to take place. The government's review will look at a "regulated utility model" for the roads.
Q: People will have to pay road tax, plus tolls. Won't drivers end up paying more?Q: People will have to pay road tax, plus tolls. Won't drivers end up paying more?
Cameron says this does not have to be the case.

Q: Rail privatisation led to the taxpayer paying more and passengers paying more. Why will this be different?
Cameron says this does not have to be the case.

Q: Rail privatisation led to the taxpayer paying more and passengers paying more. Why will this be different?
Cameron says this is just an idea going out for consultation. It draws its inspiration from the water industry. When water was privatised, investment went ahead. But "lots of consultations and discussions will have to be had".Cameron says this is just an idea going out for consultation. It draws its inspiration from the water industry. When water was privatised, investment went ahead. But "lots of consultations and discussions will have to be had".
This is a good way of unlocking private sector capital and getting investment into our road network ... It is only by innovative thinking that we are going to secure the investment we need for the future.This is a good way of unlocking private sector capital and getting investment into our road network ... It is only by innovative thinking that we are going to secure the investment we need for the future.
He and Osborne are keen on infrastructure spending, he says.He and Osborne are keen on infrastructure spending, he says.
Q: Why is the coalition contemplating tax cuts for the rich?Q: Why is the coalition contemplating tax cuts for the rich?
Cameron says he will rest on the formulation that the budget is a matter for the chancellor. You don't have long to wait, he tells Nick Robinson.Cameron says he will rest on the formulation that the budget is a matter for the chancellor. You don't have long to wait, he tells Nick Robinson.
12.16pm: Cameron says he accepts that some of his proposals will be unpopular.12.16pm: Cameron says he accepts that some of his proposals will be unpopular.

But rather than give in we should ask instead: what is it that people want for the future?

But rather than give in we should ask instead: what is it that people want for the future?
Reasonable things. A decent home. A clean environment. Jobs for their children, the ability to get around without hassle, huge costs or endless jams.Reasonable things. A decent home. A clean environment. Jobs for their children, the ability to get around without hassle, huge costs or endless jams.
He says he would like to follow the Victorians and leave a legacy.He says he would like to follow the Victorians and leave a legacy.
12.15pm: Cameron turns to housing.12.15pm: Cameron turns to housing.
The £420 million we committed in November to get sites with planning permission underway has been massively oversubscribed.The £420 million we committed in November to get sites with planning permission underway has been massively oversubscribed.
And I can announce today that the chancellor will allocate a further £150 million to extend the success of this scheme.And I can announce today that the chancellor will allocate a further £150 million to extend the success of this scheme.
12.13pm: Cameron turns to planning.12.13pm: Cameron turns to planning.
It seems to me that our post-war predecessors had the right idea, embodied in the visionary plan prepared by Patrick Abercrombie in 1944.It seems to me that our post-war predecessors had the right idea, embodied in the visionary plan prepared by Patrick Abercrombie in 1944.
His plan underpinned the South East's economic success by proposing well-planned and well-located new towns which would in time become new engines of economic growth.His plan underpinned the South East's economic success by proposing well-planned and well-located new towns which would in time become new engines of economic growth.
And he twinned that vision with proposals for a new London Green Belt to prevent sprawl.And he twinned that vision with proposals for a new London Green Belt to prevent sprawl.
He describes places like Hampstead Garden Suburb, Letchworth and Welwyn Garden City as model developments.He describes places like Hampstead Garden Suburb, Letchworth and Welwyn Garden City as model developments.
We absolutely must protect our Green Belts and National Parks. But we also urgently need to find places where we are prepared to allow significant new growth to happen.We absolutely must protect our Green Belts and National Parks. But we also urgently need to find places where we are prepared to allow significant new growth to happen.
That's why we will begin consultation later this year on how to apply the principles of garden cities to areas with high potential growth, in places people want to live.That's why we will begin consultation later this year on how to apply the principles of garden cities to areas with high potential growth, in places people want to live.
12.10pm: Turning to telecommunications, Cameron says broadband is "every bit as essential as the canals which once carried cotton".12.10pm: Turning to telecommunications, Cameron says broadband is "every bit as essential as the canals which once carried cotton".
The government wants to ensure that 90% of homes have access to high-speed broadband by 2015.The government wants to ensure that 90% of homes have access to high-speed broadband by 2015.
And this week the chancellor will be announcing ten super-connected cities, which will have universal access to ultra-fast 100Mb broadband, making them some of the fastest and best connected cities in the world.And this week the chancellor will be announcing ten super-connected cities, which will have universal access to ultra-fast 100Mb broadband, making them some of the fastest and best connected cities in the world.
The government is also going to press ahead with the auction of 4G spectrum, he says.The government is also going to press ahead with the auction of 4G spectrum, he says.
12.09pm: Cameron says he is committed to building a new generation of nuclear reactors.12.09pm: Cameron says he is committed to building a new generation of nuclear reactors.
But the price has to be right, the plants have to be built on time and the economic benefits to the UK have to be maximised.But the price has to be right, the plants have to be built on time and the economic benefits to the UK have to be maximised.
12.08pm: Cameron turns to airports.12.08pm: Cameron turns to airports.
I'm not blind to the need to increase airport capacity, particularly in the south-east.I'm not blind to the need to increase airport capacity, particularly in the south-east.
We are acting now to make the best use of existing capacity ...We are acting now to make the best use of existing capacity ...
... Gatwick is emerging as a business airport for London, under a new owner competing with Heathrow.... Gatwick is emerging as a business airport for London, under a new owner competing with Heathrow.
But we need to retain our status as a key global hub for air travel.But we need to retain our status as a key global hub for air travel.
Not just a feeder route to bigger airports elsewhere, in Frankfurt, Amsterdam or Dubai.Not just a feeder route to bigger airports elsewhere, in Frankfurt, Amsterdam or Dubai.
Yes, this will be controversial.Yes, this will be controversial.
We will need to take decisions for the long-term – and we will be bringing forward options in our aviation strategy …We will need to take decisions for the long-term – and we will be bringing forward options in our aviation strategy …
… which will include an examination of the pros and cons of a new airport in the Thames estuary.… which will include an examination of the pros and cons of a new airport in the Thames estuary.
12.06pm: Now he is turning to roads. And he has reached the section released in advance. (See 11.35am.)12.06pm: Now he is turning to roads. And he has reached the section released in advance. (See 11.35am.)
He stresses this is "not about mass tolling".He stresses this is "not about mass tolling".
12.06pm: Cameron says he is determined to tackle the "failure of nerve" by showing the government is "serious about building for the future".12.06pm: Cameron says he is determined to tackle the "failure of nerve" by showing the government is "serious about building for the future".
He cites projects like Crossrail and High Speed Two as examples of this.He cites projects like Crossrail and High Speed Two as examples of this.
12.02pm: Cameron says he wants to adopt a new approach to getting the private sector involved in public infrastructure projects.12.02pm: Cameron says he wants to adopt a new approach to getting the private sector involved in public infrastructure projects.
We are encouraging the appetite of investors – both at home and also abroad – for investment in British infrastructure, taking advantage of our stability and open markets.We are encouraging the appetite of investors – both at home and also abroad – for investment in British infrastructure, taking advantage of our stability and open markets.
In a world in which too much investment has been high-risk and short-term, there is huge potential for a different approach.In a world in which too much investment has been high-risk and short-term, there is huge potential for a different approach.
For example, we have established a Green Investment Bank - which will take £3 billion of taxpayers' money and use it to lever in several multiples of that from the private sector to build our green infrastructure.For example, we have established a Green Investment Bank - which will take £3 billion of taxpayers' money and use it to lever in several multiples of that from the private sector to build our green infrastructure.
Cameron says British pension funds will make a £2bn investment in infrastructure by 2013.Cameron says British pension funds will make a £2bn investment in infrastructure by 2013.
11.59am: Cameron says the government is tackling the "the three failures that have held back the development of our infrastructure: failure of vision; failure of financing, and failure of nerve".11.59am: Cameron says the government is tackling the "the three failures that have held back the development of our infrastructure: failure of vision; failure of financing, and failure of nerve".
The government has a national infrastructure plan, he says.The government has a national infrastructure plan, he says.

The state needs to set out infrastructure needs. But it should not be expected to meet all the costs.

The state needs to set out infrastructure needs. But it should not be expected to meet all the costs.
If we wait for the state to fund the infrastructure challenge, we'll be waiting for ever.If we wait for the state to fund the infrastructure challenge, we'll be waiting for ever.
But equally, it's wrong to think that this job should fall entirely on the shoulders of the private sector ...But equally, it's wrong to think that this job should fall entirely on the shoulders of the private sector ...
So when it comes to the question of financing, we need to use the power of the state to unlock the dynamism of the market.So when it comes to the question of financing, we need to use the power of the state to unlock the dynamism of the market.
11.58am: Cameron says our plannning system is partly to blame.11.58am: Cameron says our plannning system is partly to blame.
Our planning system for infrastructure is much too expensive and unbelievably slow.Our planning system for infrastructure is much too expensive and unbelievably slow.
It took almost twenty years – twenty years - to get Terminal Five at Heathrow.It took almost twenty years – twenty years - to get Terminal Five at Heathrow.
It will take at least fourteen years for the first section of High Speed Two to open.It will take at least fourteen years for the first section of High Speed Two to open.
Compare that to Stephenson's London to Birmingham railway in 1838.Compare that to Stephenson's London to Birmingham railway in 1838.
It was the world's first major inter-city railway, built in just five amazing years from the application to parliament to the first through train.It was the world's first major inter-city railway, built in just five amazing years from the application to parliament to the first through train.
The kind of things we did almost 200 years ago, China does today.The kind of things we did almost 200 years ago, China does today.
And that matters.And that matters.
Because we're not just up against old world economies with old world infrastructure.Because we're not just up against old world economies with old world infrastructure.
11.58am: Cameron returns to the subject of how poor Britain's infrastructure is.11.58am: Cameron returns to the subject of how poor Britain's infrastructure is.
We lose £7bn a year because of congestion on our roads - and yet the last administration only built around twenty-five miles of new motorway …We lose £7bn a year because of congestion on our roads - and yet the last administration only built around twenty-five miles of new motorway …
… which by the way is fewer than the number of transport ministers in that government.… which by the way is fewer than the number of transport ministers in that government.
Our railways are crowded and expensive – compared to the French, Dutch and Swiss railways our fares are 30% higher, our running costs 40% higher and our public subsidy is double.Our railways are crowded and expensive – compared to the French, Dutch and Swiss railways our fares are 30% higher, our running costs 40% higher and our public subsidy is double.
You have to admit, it's something of a miracle to achieve high fares, big subsidies and poor performance – all at the same time.You have to admit, it's something of a miracle to achieve high fares, big subsidies and poor performance – all at the same time.
Our average broadband speed is 8 megabits per second - when in South Korea the figure is 31.6.Our average broadband speed is 8 megabits per second - when in South Korea the figure is 31.6.
11.56am: Cameron says that, as well as a failure of vision, there has also been a failure of financing and a failure of nerve.11.56am: Cameron says that, as well as a failure of vision, there has also been a failure of financing and a failure of nerve.
No government has acted with the necessary determination to blast through the vested interests and bureaucratic hurdles in order to provide what the long-term national interest demands.No government has acted with the necessary determination to blast through the vested interests and bureaucratic hurdles in order to provide what the long-term national interest demands.
11.55am: Cameron says the last government did make progress on important projects.11.55am: Cameron says the last government did make progress on important projects.
But no recent government has had a vision for infrastructure, he says.But no recent government has had a vision for infrastructure, he says.
The truth is, no government in living memory has set out a sufficiently comprehensive and ambitious vision of this country's infrastructure needs.The truth is, no government in living memory has set out a sufficiently comprehensive and ambitious vision of this country's infrastructure needs.
By a comprehensive and ambitious vision, I don't just mean a list of projects.By a comprehensive and ambitious vision, I don't just mean a list of projects.
I mean an overall system – an integrated set of networks that collectively deliver the economic and social goods.I mean an overall system – an integrated set of networks that collectively deliver the economic and social goods.
11.53am: Cameron says Britain used to be good at infrastructure.11.53am: Cameron says Britain used to be good at infrastructure.
Our national heroes include men of iron and steam like Brunel, Stephenson and Telford - all commemorated in Westminster Abbey alongside former Prime Ministers and great authors like Charles Dickens.Our national heroes include men of iron and steam like Brunel, Stephenson and Telford - all commemorated in Westminster Abbey alongside former Prime Ministers and great authors like Charles Dickens.
Our inheritance includes daring bridges and soaring stations - structures built with Victorian swagger and intended to last like Norman castles.Our inheritance includes daring bridges and soaring stations - structures built with Victorian swagger and intended to last like Norman castles.
Our national legacy to the world can be seen not just in language and culture, but through the steam engine, the jet engine, the railway and civil nuclear power.Our national legacy to the world can be seen not just in language and culture, but through the steam engine, the jet engine, the railway and civil nuclear power.
And Britons still have these skills, he says.And Britons still have these skills, he says.
From east London to the west, Crossrail is the largest engineering project in Europe.From east London to the west, Crossrail is the largest engineering project in Europe.
Our engineering firms like Arup work miracles in steel and glass.Our engineering firms like Arup work miracles in steel and glass.
Great British architects like Richard Rogers, Norman Foster and Zaha Hadid design airports in China, viaducts in France, and factories in Germany.Great British architects like Richard Rogers, Norman Foster and Zaha Hadid design airports in China, viaducts in France, and factories in Germany.
So let's not accept the idea that our glories were all in the past …So let's not accept the idea that our glories were all in the past …
11.51am: Cameron says part of the horizon shift involves doing more to promote infrastructure.11.51am: Cameron says part of the horizon shift involves doing more to promote infrastructure.
And that's important because Britain's infrastructure is poor, he says.And that's important because Britain's infrastructure is poor, he says.
Because the truth is, we are falling behind.Because the truth is, we are falling behind.
Falling behind our competitors.Falling behind our competitors.
And falling behind the great, world-beating, pioneering tradition set by those who came before us.And falling behind the great, world-beating, pioneering tradition set by those who came before us.
There is now an urgent need to repair the decades-long degradation of our national infrastructure …There is now an urgent need to repair the decades-long degradation of our national infrastructure …
… and to build for the future with as much confidence and ambition as the Victorians once did.… and to build for the future with as much confidence and ambition as the Victorians once did.
11.49am: David Cameron is starting now. And he's in jargon mode.11.49am: David Cameron is starting now. And he's in jargon mode.
The government has introduced a "power shift", he says - putting more power in people's hands.The government has introduced a "power shift", he says - putting more power in people's hands.
But it has also promoted a "horizon shift" - which means getting the government to focus more on long-term issues.But it has also promoted a "horizon shift" - which means getting the government to focus more on long-term issues.
11.35am: Here's an extract from the David Cameron speech released in advance explaining Cameron's plan to semi-privatise part of the road network.11.35am: Here's an extract from the David Cameron speech released in advance explaining Cameron's plan to semi-privatise part of the road network.

We need good roads, too. Again, the problem's clear: we don't have enough capacity in places of key demand. There's nothing green about a traffic jam - and gridlock holds the economy back.

We need good roads, too. Again, the problem's clear: we don't have enough capacity in places of key demand. There's nothing green about a traffic jam - and gridlock holds the economy back.
So here's what we should do. Yes, move passengers and heavy goods onto rail. But also widen pinch points, add lanes to motorways by using the hard shoulder to increase capacity and dual overcrowded A-roads.So here's what we should do. Yes, move passengers and heavy goods onto rail. But also widen pinch points, add lanes to motorways by using the hard shoulder to increase capacity and dual overcrowded A-roads.
The massive programme announced during last year's Growth Review made a good start. But how do we do more, when , frankly, there isn't enough money?The massive programme announced during last year's Growth Review made a good start. But how do we do more, when , frankly, there isn't enough money?
We need to look at innovative approaches to the funding of our national roads - to increase investment to reduce congestion. Road tolling is one option – but we are only considering this for new, not existing, capacity. For example, we're looking at how improvements to the A14 could be part funded through tolling.We need to look at innovative approaches to the funding of our national roads - to increase investment to reduce congestion. Road tolling is one option – but we are only considering this for new, not existing, capacity. For example, we're looking at how improvements to the A14 could be part funded through tolling.
But we now need to be more ambitious. Why is it that other infrastructure – for example water - is funded by private sector capital through privately owned, independently regulated, utilities……but roads in Britain call on the public finances for funding?But we now need to be more ambitious. Why is it that other infrastructure – for example water - is funded by private sector capital through privately owned, independently regulated, utilities……but roads in Britain call on the public finances for funding?
We need to look urgently at the options for getting large-scale private investment into the national roads network – from sovereign wealth funds, pension funds, and other investors. That's why I have asked the Department for Transport and the Treasury to carry out a feasibility study of new ownership and financing models for the national roads system and to report progress to me in the Autumn.We need to look urgently at the options for getting large-scale private investment into the national roads network – from sovereign wealth funds, pension funds, and other investors. That's why I have asked the Department for Transport and the Treasury to carry out a feasibility study of new ownership and financing models for the national roads system and to report progress to me in the Autumn.
11.30am: David Cameron was due to be starting his speech at 11.30am. But Sky and BBC News are now focusing on the Duchess of Cambridge, who is making what is being billed as her first public speech at a hospice in Ipswich. Presumably Cameron will decide to wait a few minutes before he gets to his feet ...11.30am: David Cameron was due to be starting his speech at 11.30am. But Sky and BBC News are now focusing on the Duchess of Cambridge, who is making what is being billed as her first public speech at a hospice in Ipswich. Presumably Cameron will decide to wait a few minutes before he gets to his feet ...
11.25am: David Cameron should be starting his speech on infrastructure in the next five minutes.11.25am: David Cameron should be starting his speech on infrastructure in the next five minutes.
Sky have just shown footage of him leaving Number 10 on his way to the venue. Sky's Joey Jones asked him if there was anything left in the budget that had not been leaked. Cameron seemed to see the funny side.Sky have just shown footage of him leaving Number 10 on his way to the venue. Sky's Joey Jones asked him if there was anything left in the budget that had not been leaked. Cameron seemed to see the funny side.
11.10am: You can read all today's Guardian politics stories here. And all the politics stories filed yesterday, including some in today's paper, are here.11.10am: You can read all today's Guardian politics stories here. And all the politics stories filed yesterday, including some in today's paper, are here.
As for the rest of the papers, here are some stories and articles that are particularly interesting.As for the rest of the papers, here are some stories and articles that are particularly interesting.
• George Parker in the Financial Times (subscription) says George Osborne will cut the 50p top rate of tax to 45p from 2013 in his budget.• George Parker in the Financial Times (subscription) says George Osborne will cut the 50p top rate of tax to 45p from 2013 in his budget.
Mr Osborne claims to have constructed a package aimed at the "hard working families", but the message risks being drowned out by his decision – confirmed by several officials close to the Budget process – to cut tax on earnings above £150,000 from 50p to 45p from April 2013 ...Mr Osborne claims to have constructed a package aimed at the "hard working families", but the message risks being drowned out by his decision – confirmed by several officials close to the Budget process – to cut tax on earnings above £150,000 from 50p to 45p from April 2013 ...
The Liberal Democrats feel an urgent need to make the "fairness" case, hence the party's description of the Budget as a "Robin Hood" package. Mr Clegg has insisted that the lost revenue from cutting the 50p rate must be offset by a squeeze on tax avoidance that raises at least double the amount.The Liberal Democrats feel an urgent need to make the "fairness" case, hence the party's description of the Budget as a "Robin Hood" package. Mr Clegg has insisted that the lost revenue from cutting the 50p rate must be offset by a squeeze on tax avoidance that raises at least double the amount.
One party official said: "The people who must benefit are working people in the squeezed middle: top earning tax dodgers and their army of flashy accountants should be quaking in their boots."One party official said: "The people who must benefit are working people in the squeezed middle: top earning tax dodgers and their army of flashy accountants should be quaking in their boots."
Mr Clegg cannot afford to be branded by Labour as an accomplice to a Conservative chancellor, supposedly helping his wealthy friends. Therefore, Mr Clegg's claim that his idea of a "tycoon tax" – raising the overall tax take from the rich – will be embodied in the Budget.Mr Clegg cannot afford to be branded by Labour as an accomplice to a Conservative chancellor, supposedly helping his wealthy friends. Therefore, Mr Clegg's claim that his idea of a "tycoon tax" – raising the overall tax take from the rich – will be embodied in the Budget.


• Chris Mullin in the Times (paywall) says income tax should go up.


• Chris Mullin in the Times (paywall) says income tax should go up.
When Mrs Thatcher left office the basic tax rate was 25p in the pound. Today it is 20p. Successive chancellors, anxious to pose as tax cutters, have slashed it. But the plain fact is that this is too low to sustain the level of public services that we all, or most of us, have come to expect. For years governments have pretended that it is possible to enjoy North European levels of public services and pay US levels of taxation. This is not possible. There is a choice to be made and sooner or later it will have to be faced ...When Mrs Thatcher left office the basic tax rate was 25p in the pound. Today it is 20p. Successive chancellors, anxious to pose as tax cutters, have slashed it. But the plain fact is that this is too low to sustain the level of public services that we all, or most of us, have come to expect. For years governments have pretended that it is possible to enjoy North European levels of public services and pay US levels of taxation. This is not possible. There is a choice to be made and sooner or later it will have to be faced ...
Gordon Brown, in his last Budget as Chancellor, slashed the basic rate by 2p in return for a round of applause that had faded within 24 hours, costing the Exchequer a cool £6 billion a year, recurring. He did it for the entirely cynical reason that he was contemplating an early general election. In the event he bottled out, but the cut in tax was permanent.Gordon Brown, in his last Budget as Chancellor, slashed the basic rate by 2p in return for a round of applause that had faded within 24 hours, costing the Exchequer a cool £6 billion a year, recurring. He did it for the entirely cynical reason that he was contemplating an early general election. In the event he bottled out, but the cut in tax was permanent.
• Lord Wilson, the former cabinet secretary, says in an article for the Telegraph that publishing the health bill risk register would be a "major blow" to the cause of good government.• Lord Wilson, the former cabinet secretary, says in an article for the Telegraph that publishing the health bill risk register would be a "major blow" to the cause of good government.
We have the best chance of being governed well if civil servants are able to give their best policy advice to their Ministers, frankly and on the basis of an impartial analysis of the options and the facts, in private. This applies to the risk register. We need Ministers to have before them documents which 'speak truth unto power' at those moments when they are on the brink of key decisions on a policy, or when they need to think through the risks of what they want to do.. There needs to be a private space where they can receive advice without worrying how it would look in the media or Parliament.We have the best chance of being governed well if civil servants are able to give their best policy advice to their Ministers, frankly and on the basis of an impartial analysis of the options and the facts, in private. This applies to the risk register. We need Ministers to have before them documents which 'speak truth unto power' at those moments when they are on the brink of key decisions on a policy, or when they need to think through the risks of what they want to do.. There needs to be a private space where they can receive advice without worrying how it would look in the media or Parliament.
• Tony Blair says in an article in the Times (paywall) that Africa could be free from dependence on aid within a generation.• Tony Blair says in an article in the Times (paywall) that Africa could be free from dependence on aid within a generation.
The debt relief campaign has liberated African economies from the burden of indebtedness, allowing them to compete globally. Government funds that once went to service debt now go on public services. In Nigeria, a country of 170 million people, 70 per cent of whom live on less than $1.25 a day, the millions saved have been piled back into healthcare, with vaccination levels rising from 10 per cent to 65 per cent in places. Thousands of lives have been saved each year. And the progress on malaria, Aids and measles is spread right across the continent ...The debt relief campaign has liberated African economies from the burden of indebtedness, allowing them to compete globally. Government funds that once went to service debt now go on public services. In Nigeria, a country of 170 million people, 70 per cent of whom live on less than $1.25 a day, the millions saved have been piled back into healthcare, with vaccination levels rising from 10 per cent to 65 per cent in places. Thousands of lives have been saved each year. And the progress on malaria, Aids and measles is spread right across the continent ...
However, the main thing changing Africa is Africa itself. There is one indispensable thing that cannot be imported: government. Here, too, things have improved. The number of democracies in sub-Saharan Africa has skyrocketed from three in 1989 to 23 in 2008. Since 1991, African governments have been defeated at the ballot box 30 times. Between the 1960s and 1991 that happened only once. To seize this moment, African governments across the continent must step up to lead the way. I see a new generation of leaders emerging, ready to take their countries' destinies into their own hands, no longer dependent on outside assistance. This is achievable. I believe that we can end African countries' dependence on aid within a generation. But it will need a new approach, a new partnership between developed and developing world.However, the main thing changing Africa is Africa itself. There is one indispensable thing that cannot be imported: government. Here, too, things have improved. The number of democracies in sub-Saharan Africa has skyrocketed from three in 1989 to 23 in 2008. Since 1991, African governments have been defeated at the ballot box 30 times. Between the 1960s and 1991 that happened only once. To seize this moment, African governments across the continent must step up to lead the way. I see a new generation of leaders emerging, ready to take their countries' destinies into their own hands, no longer dependent on outside assistance. This is achievable. I believe that we can end African countries' dependence on aid within a generation. But it will need a new approach, a new partnership between developed and developing world.
• Boris Johnson in his Daily Telegraph column says that his new Routemaster bus symbolises what's best about his record as London's mayor.• Boris Johnson in his Daily Telegraph column says that his new Routemaster bus symbolises what's best about his record as London's mayor.
That new bus incarnates our cost-cutting approach, because the entire project has been delivered for about £10 million – not much more than the annual fare evasion on the bendy buses.That new bus incarnates our cost-cutting approach, because the entire project has been delivered for about £10 million – not much more than the annual fare evasion on the bendy buses.
You will hear my critics say that each of the first eight new buses therefore costs more than a million. This is cretinous. You might as well say that each of the first 10 new Minis cost £50 million, because the cost of developing the new Mini was about £500 million. Hundreds of those beautiful buses will be appearing on our streets, and thousands of London buses will be based on their design and technology.You will hear my critics say that each of the first eight new buses therefore costs more than a million. This is cretinous. You might as well say that each of the first 10 new Minis cost £50 million, because the cost of developing the new Mini was about £500 million. Hundreds of those beautiful buses will be appearing on our streets, and thousands of London buses will be based on their design and technology.
• Frances Gibb in the Times (paywall) says the parliamentary committee on privacy and injunctions has backed plans for a new system of press self-regulation.• Frances Gibb in the Times (paywall) says the parliamentary committee on privacy and injunctions has backed plans for a new system of press self-regulation.
Plans for press self-regulation but with the safeguard of parliamentary oversight have won the backing of an influential committee of MPs and peers, The Times has learnt.Plans for press self-regulation but with the safeguard of parliamentary oversight have won the backing of an influential committee of MPs and peers, The Times has learnt.
A report from the Joint Committee on Privacy and Injunctions is expected to endorse proposals put forward by Lord Hunt of Wirral, chairman of the Press Complaints Commission, that the industry should first try to regulate itself — with statutory intervention if a new scheme fails.A report from the Joint Committee on Privacy and Injunctions is expected to endorse proposals put forward by Lord Hunt of Wirral, chairman of the Press Complaints Commission, that the industry should first try to regulate itself — with statutory intervention if a new scheme fails.
Under Lord Hunt's plans, likened by some to Premier-League-style regulation, proprietors would sign up to the new framework, to be overseen by a small regulatory board with a majority of lay members and an independent chairman. It would be underpinned by a system of contracts with proprietors; have power to impose fines and operate a complaints' mediation procedure.Under Lord Hunt's plans, likened by some to Premier-League-style regulation, proprietors would sign up to the new framework, to be overseen by a small regulatory board with a majority of lay members and an independent chairman. It would be underpinned by a system of contracts with proprietors; have power to impose fines and operate a complaints' mediation procedure.
Crucially, though, the board would report annually to Parliament, providing an opportunity for debate so that — as one committee member put it — "it would know someone was looking over its shoulder".Crucially, though, the board would report annually to Parliament, providing an opportunity for debate so that — as one committee member put it — "it would know someone was looking over its shoulder".
10.52am: Nick Gibb, the schools minister, was on Radio 5 Live this morning talking about Maggie Atkinson's school exclusions report. He said the government would take action if pupils were being excluded illegally.10.52am: Nick Gibb, the schools minister, was on Radio 5 Live this morning talking about Maggie Atkinson's school exclusions report. He said the government would take action if pupils were being excluded illegally.
We will look at this report very carefully, and we will take action if there is any evidence of unlawful exclusions taking place in schools. We're very clear about what the rules are about when a school can exclude a child, and we'll look at the evidence very carefully. But we have to trust teachers. We're determined to raise levels of behaviour in our schools. Parents are concerned about poor behaviour, and that's why we have shifted the balance of authority away from the child, back towards the teacher.We will look at this report very carefully, and we will take action if there is any evidence of unlawful exclusions taking place in schools. We're very clear about what the rules are about when a school can exclude a child, and we'll look at the evidence very carefully. But we have to trust teachers. We're determined to raise levels of behaviour in our schools. Parents are concerned about poor behaviour, and that's why we have shifted the balance of authority away from the child, back towards the teacher.
10.35am: The adult minimum wage will go up by 11p an hour in October, to £6.19 an hour. But the rates for 18 to 20-year-olds and for 16 and 17-year-olds will be frozen. The full details are on the Department for Business website.10.35am: The adult minimum wage will go up by 11p an hour in October, to £6.19 an hour. But the rates for 18 to 20-year-olds and for 16 and 17-year-olds will be frozen. The full details are on the Department for Business website.
Although the government is just following the recommendations of the Low Pay Commission (LPC), Brendan Barber, the TUC general secretary, said ministers should have increased the rate for young people.Although the government is just following the recommendations of the Low Pay Commission (LPC), Brendan Barber, the TUC general secretary, said ministers should have increased the rate for young people.
The LPC should have been bolder in its recommendations. Even in the current economic climate there was room for an increase in the minimum wage that at the very least kept pace with inflation and earnings.

It is wrong to deny young people an increase this year, as there is no evidence that the minimum wage has had an adverse impact on jobs. The reason why firms have not been hiring enough new workers is because they lack confidence in this government's ability to set the UK on course for a sound economic recovery. There is now a real danger that young people will view minimum wage work as exploitative.

Many of the businesses that are calling for the minimum wage to be frozen are also complaining about the lack of consumer spending. Boosting demand is vital – but this will not be achieved by squeezing the low paid even further.

Low-paid workers, like hairdressers, shop workers and care assistants, tend to spend 100 per cent of any salary increase in their local economy, so a well-judged rise in the minimum wage would have a beneficial effect across the UK.
The LPC should have been bolder in its recommendations. Even in the current economic climate there was room for an increase in the minimum wage that at the very least kept pace with inflation and earnings.

It is wrong to deny young people an increase this year, as there is no evidence that the minimum wage has had an adverse impact on jobs. The reason why firms have not been hiring enough new workers is because they lack confidence in this government's ability to set the UK on course for a sound economic recovery. There is now a real danger that young people will view minimum wage work as exploitative.

Many of the businesses that are calling for the minimum wage to be frozen are also complaining about the lack of consumer spending. Boosting demand is vital – but this will not be achieved by squeezing the low paid even further.

Low-paid workers, like hairdressers, shop workers and care assistants, tend to spend 100 per cent of any salary increase in their local economy, so a well-judged rise in the minimum wage would have a beneficial effect across the UK.
10.13am: The Local Government Association has published a report saying that the government's attempts to get young people into work are a mess. Here's an extract from its news release.10.13am: The Local Government Association has published a report saying that the government's attempts to get young people into work are a mess. Here's an extract from its news release.
Attempts to get more than one million young people into work are being hampered by excessive bureaucracy, duplication and government control, according to local government leaders.Attempts to get more than one million young people into work are being hampered by excessive bureaucracy, duplication and government control, according to local government leaders.
An analysis of the current efforts to tackle youth unemployment has identified an overly complicated £15 billion system that is awash with different national, strategies and inconsistent age barriers.An analysis of the current efforts to tackle youth unemployment has identified an overly complicated £15 billion system that is awash with different national, strategies and inconsistent age barriers.
The research, by the Local Government Association, reveals a complex picture, with people aged 13 to 24 receiving support from at least eight different national organisations, who fund 33 different schemes and span 13 different age boundaries at a cost of £15 billion a year.The research, by the Local Government Association, reveals a complex picture, with people aged 13 to 24 receiving support from at least eight different national organisations, who fund 33 different schemes and span 13 different age boundaries at a cost of £15 billion a year.
The report - 'Hidden Talents' - exposes how government approaches have cast the most disengaged young people further adrift, failing to identify and target support at those most affected by the recession and with the most difficult and complex circumstances.The report - 'Hidden Talents' - exposes how government approaches have cast the most disengaged young people further adrift, failing to identify and target support at those most affected by the recession and with the most difficult and complex circumstances.
As a result, this group of 'core - neets', young people not in employment, education or training for more than 12 months, is growing at a faster rate than any other and has doubled in four years to 260,000. This means one in four young people out of work is now classed as long term unemployed and more likely to be living on benefits in later life.As a result, this group of 'core - neets', young people not in employment, education or training for more than 12 months, is growing at a faster rate than any other and has doubled in four years to 260,000. This means one in four young people out of work is now classed as long term unemployed and more likely to be living on benefits in later life.
And here's a quote from Cllr Peter Box, the chair of the LGA's economy and transport board.And here's a quote from Cllr Peter Box, the chair of the LGA's economy and transport board.
It's clear that the current attempts to tackle youth unemployment aren't working. National approaches tend to work for those out of work for a short time and address spikes in unemployment, but fail to reach those who are the most marginalised.It's clear that the current attempts to tackle youth unemployment aren't working. National approaches tend to work for those out of work for a short time and address spikes in unemployment, but fail to reach those who are the most marginalised.
9.43am: Much of the pre-budget comment has focused on the 50p top rate of tax, when George Osborne will cut it and whether he will replace it with a new 45p top rate.9.43am: Much of the pre-budget comment has focused on the 50p top rate of tax, when George Osborne will cut it and whether he will replace it with a new 45p top rate.
But, in an article for PoliticsHome, the Conservative MP Mark Pritchard (pictured), secretary of the 1922 committee, says the 40p rate should also go. Here's an extract.But, in an article for PoliticsHome, the Conservative MP Mark Pritchard (pictured), secretary of the 1922 committee, says the 40p rate should also go. Here's an extract.
The chancellor must unleash this aspiration by scrapping the 50 pence and 40 pence upper rates and replace it with a single 38 pence higher rate. The 50 pence tax is a job destroying tax, is fundamentally un-Conservative, and economically dumb in that it acts as a punitive deterrent to all would-be entrepreneurs and investors. It is posture politics. Similarly, the 40 pence rate eats into middle earner's disposable income and their ability to spend in the wider economy.The chancellor must unleash this aspiration by scrapping the 50 pence and 40 pence upper rates and replace it with a single 38 pence higher rate. The 50 pence tax is a job destroying tax, is fundamentally un-Conservative, and economically dumb in that it acts as a punitive deterrent to all would-be entrepreneurs and investors. It is posture politics. Similarly, the 40 pence rate eats into middle earner's disposable income and their ability to spend in the wider economy.
9.30am: There's already been plenty of reaction to David Cameron's proposal to semi-privatise the roads. Here's a round-up. I've taken the quotes from the Press Association and PoliticsHome.9.30am: There's already been plenty of reaction to David Cameron's proposal to semi-privatise the roads. Here's a round-up. I've taken the quotes from the Press Association and PoliticsHome.
From Maria Eagle (pictured), the shadow transport secretaryFrom Maria Eagle (pictured), the shadow transport secretary
Giving companies the power to rip off motorists even more is not the answer. Motorists are already facing the highest fuel prices ever, and now they're facing the prospect of being ripped off by having to pay tolls on existing roads ... People only need to look at our railway industry to see what happens when you go down this kind of path. Instead of it being cheaper it now costs three times as much as any other railway. Passengers and taxpayers are getting ripped off. That's what I fear's going to happen if this goes ahead in the way in which the government are looking at it.Giving companies the power to rip off motorists even more is not the answer. Motorists are already facing the highest fuel prices ever, and now they're facing the prospect of being ripped off by having to pay tolls on existing roads ... People only need to look at our railway industry to see what happens when you go down this kind of path. Instead of it being cheaper it now costs three times as much as any other railway. Passengers and taxpayers are getting ripped off. That's what I fear's going to happen if this goes ahead in the way in which the government are looking at it.
From Professor Stephen Glaister, director of the RAC FoundationFrom Professor Stephen Glaister, director of the RAC Foundation
We should cautiously welcome the prospect of private-sector involvement. There are just not enough public resources to provide the capacity we need and this offers the chance to make long-term plans for a utility every bit as important as things like water, power, electricity and the railways.We should cautiously welcome the prospect of private-sector involvement. There are just not enough public resources to provide the capacity we need and this offers the chance to make long-term plans for a utility every bit as important as things like water, power, electricity and the railways.
From Neil Greig, director of policy and research at the Institute of Advanced MotoristsFrom Neil Greig, director of policy and research at the Institute of Advanced Motorists
British drivers simply don't trust the government to come up with a new way of paying for roads that will not lead to increased costs in the long run. Drivers already pay far more in taxes and duties than they get back in investment in new roads.British drivers simply don't trust the government to come up with a new way of paying for roads that will not lead to increased costs in the long run. Drivers already pay far more in taxes and duties than they get back in investment in new roads.
New roads are safer, but what is needed is the release of more existing motoring taxes as part of a long-term investment plan to target pinch points and eliminate the maintenance backlog.New roads are safer, but what is needed is the release of more existing motoring taxes as part of a long-term investment plan to target pinch points and eliminate the maintenance backlog.
Tolls can be an attractive proposition to many low-mileage drivers but only if current taxes are cut to compensate for new charges. Past governments have a poor track record of removing tolls once private contracts have expired. The Dartford Crossing should have been free once the original debt was paid but tolls remain in place.Tolls can be an attractive proposition to many low-mileage drivers but only if current taxes are cut to compensate for new charges. Past governments have a poor track record of removing tolls once private contracts have expired. The Dartford Crossing should have been free once the original debt was paid but tolls remain in place.
From Conservative MP Matthew HancockFrom Conservative MP Matthew Hancock

It's very clear that no-one is talking about tolls on existing roads ... What people are talking about is either getting new roads built by having tolls on them and then also trying to get private companies to do more to improve existing roads. Here it is about leveraging in investment.

It's very clear that no-one is talking about tolls on existing roads ... What people are talking about is either getting new roads built by having tolls on them and then also trying to get private companies to do more to improve existing roads. Here it is about leveraging in investment.
9.18am: Stephen Twigg (left), the shadow education secretary, has put out this comment about Maggie Atkinson's school exclusions report.9.18am: Stephen Twigg (left), the shadow education secretary, has put out this comment about Maggie Atkinson's school exclusions report.
No child, however challenging, should be left behind. There is something systematically wrong if schools are breaking the exclusions law in this way. This is often at the expense of poor, black or special needs children.No child, however challenging, should be left behind. There is something systematically wrong if schools are breaking the exclusions law in this way. This is often at the expense of poor, black or special needs children.
The children's commissioner has done some of our most vulnerable children a service in exposing the 'ghosting' of pupils from school to school and unrecorded exclusions. The government and Ofsted need to take robust action to address her recommendations and ensure our schools do not fail challenging children.The children's commissioner has done some of our most vulnerable children a service in exposing the 'ghosting' of pupils from school to school and unrecorded exclusions. The government and Ofsted need to take robust action to address her recommendations and ensure our schools do not fail challenging children.
9.00am: As the pre-budget leaking, briefing and speculation continues at full pelt, spare a thought for poor John Bercow. The Speaker is determined to ensure that ministers make important announcements at the despatch box in the Commons, and not on the Today programme or on the front pages of the national newspapers, and last year he revealed that he kept George Osborne on his feet for three hours at the autumn statement last year, by extending questions for as long as possible, as "punishment" (my phrase) for the fact that so much of it was revealed in advance. Osborne clearly does not give two hoots, because this year there seems to be more pre-budget briefing then ever before. We've had the announcements about regional public sector pay and sunday working hours, and we've got a fairly clear idea what to expect on 50p, raising the tax allowance and the "tycoon tax" (although it is not clear to what extent these stories were briefed by the Treasury, and to what extent they came from other sources). Yesterday Osborne was on the Andrew Marr Show talking about the budget. And this morning David Cameron is actually giving a whole speech about an infrastructure proposal that you would expect to hear about in the budget statement. As the Today programme covered it, Bercow must have been spluttering into his cornflakes. I wouldn't be surprised if he has something to say about this later.9.00am: As the pre-budget leaking, briefing and speculation continues at full pelt, spare a thought for poor John Bercow. The Speaker is determined to ensure that ministers make important announcements at the despatch box in the Commons, and not on the Today programme or on the front pages of the national newspapers, and last year he revealed that he kept George Osborne on his feet for three hours at the autumn statement last year, by extending questions for as long as possible, as "punishment" (my phrase) for the fact that so much of it was revealed in advance. Osborne clearly does not give two hoots, because this year there seems to be more pre-budget briefing then ever before. We've had the announcements about regional public sector pay and sunday working hours, and we've got a fairly clear idea what to expect on 50p, raising the tax allowance and the "tycoon tax" (although it is not clear to what extent these stories were briefed by the Treasury, and to what extent they came from other sources). Yesterday Osborne was on the Andrew Marr Show talking about the budget. And this morning David Cameron is actually giving a whole speech about an infrastructure proposal that you would expect to hear about in the budget statement. As the Today programme covered it, Bercow must have been spluttering into his cornflakes. I wouldn't be surprised if he has something to say about this later.
I'll be covering the Cameron speech in detail later. And it's also an important day for the health bill. Here's the full agenda for the day.I'll be covering the Cameron speech in detail later. And it's also an important day for the health bill. Here's the full agenda for the day.
8.30am: Tony Blair gives a speech on business and economic opportunities in Africa.

10am:
Crime correspondents give evidence to the Leveson Inquiry. The witnesses include Jerry Lawton of the Daily Star, James Murray of the Sunday Express and John Twomey of the Daily Express.

11.30am:
David Cameron delivers a speech on infrastructure. As Nicholas Watt reports, Cameron will clear the way for a multibillion-pound semi-privatisation of trunk roads and motorways as he announces plans to allow sovereign wealth funds from countries such as China to lease roads in England.
8.30am: Tony Blair gives a speech on business and economic opportunities in Africa.

10am:
Crime correspondents give evidence to the Leveson Inquiry. The witnesses include Jerry Lawton of the Daily Star, James Murray of the Sunday Express and John Twomey of the Daily Express.

11.30am:
David Cameron delivers a speech on infrastructure. As Nicholas Watt reports, Cameron will clear the way for a multibillion-pound semi-privatisation of trunk roads and motorways as he announces plans to allow sovereign wealth funds from countries such as China to lease roads in England.
2.30pm: Maggie Atkinson, the children's commissioner, publishes her school exclusions inquiry report. As Jeevan Vasagar reports, it will say that headteachers have admitted illegally excluding pupils from school, including one "extreme" case in which children in their final GCSE year were sent home at Christmas and told not to return until their exams.2.30pm: Maggie Atkinson, the children's commissioner, publishes her school exclusions inquiry report. As Jeevan Vasagar reports, it will say that headteachers have admitted illegally excluding pupils from school, including one "extreme" case in which children in their final GCSE year were sent home at Christmas and told not to return until their exams.
2.30pm: Theresa May, the home secretary, takes questions in the Commons.2.30pm: Theresa May, the home secretary, takes questions in the Commons.
After 3pm: Peers start debating the third reading of the health bill. Labour will try to block the bill and there will also be a vote on a call from Lord Owen for the bill to be delayed until the government fully responds to the information tribunal's ruling saying the bill's risk register should be published. My colleague Randeep Ramesh will be covering the proceedings in detial on his health bill live blog.After 3pm: Peers start debating the third reading of the health bill. Labour will try to block the bill and there will also be a vote on a call from Lord Owen for the bill to be delayed until the government fully responds to the information tribunal's ruling saying the bill's risk register should be published. My colleague Randeep Ramesh will be covering the proceedings in detial on his health bill live blog.
As usual, I'll be covering all the breaking political news, as well as looking at the papers and bringing you the best politics from the web. I'll post a lunchtime summary at around 1pm and another in the afternoon.As usual, I'll be covering all the breaking political news, as well as looking at the papers and bringing you the best politics from the web. I'll post a lunchtime summary at around 1pm and another in the afternoon.
If you want to follow me on Twitter, I'm on @AndrewSparrow.If you want to follow me on Twitter, I'm on @AndrewSparrow.
And if you're a hardcore fan, you can follow @gdnpoliticslive. It's an automated feed that tweets the start of every new post that I put on the blog.And if you're a hardcore fan, you can follow @gdnpoliticslive. It's an automated feed that tweets the start of every new post that I put on the blog.