Pensioner bonds to pay 2.8% and 4%
New pensioner bonds are to carry market-leading interest rates, the government announces, with the products due to be launched in January. BBC News – Business
Craig Taylor
‘Ransom offer’ for killed US hostage
The stepmother of journalist Luke Somers, killed in a rescue bid in Yemen, says there were negotiations for his release and an offer to pay a ransom. BBC News – Middle East
Mexico minister denies home scandal
Mexico’s finance minister defends his purchase of a luxury home, amid reports he bought it from a firm whose parent company won public contracts. BBC News – Latin America & Caribbean
UK flights hit by computer failure
Passengers are facing widespread disruption after a serious computer failure at the UK’s air traffic control centre grounded and diverted flights. BBC News – UK
Ukraine ‘must double’ defence budget
Ukraine must double its military budget next year to $ 3bn to fund the fight against pro-Russian rebels, the defence minister says. BBC News – Europe
US Senate takes up $1.1tn budget
The US Senate is set to vote on a $ 1.1tn (£700bn) budget a day after it cleared the House of Representatives in a close and contentious vote. BBC News – US & Canada