UN alarmed as US cuts aid to Palestinian refugee agency
Officials warn the dignity and human security of millions of Palestinian refugees are at stake. BBC News – Middle East
Craig Taylor
Catalonia MPs elect separatist speaker as parliament reconvenes
The choice of Roger Torrent is the first step to reinstating local government. BBC News – Europe
US shutdown looms amid immigration feud
Congress bickers ahead of a Friday deadline to pass a temporary measure funding federal agencies. BBC News – US & Canada
UK pledges extra £44m for Channel border security
The UK government money will be spent on fencing, CCTV and infrared detection technology. BBC News – UK
Merera Gudina, Ethiopia opposition leader, freed
Merera Gudina is the first of more than 500 prisoners the government has said it will release. BBC News – Africa
Carillion was left with just £29m before going bankrupt
Carillion held rescue talks with the government since October in a bid to stave off collapse, says boss. BBC News – Business