It would be hard for Democrats to force Mr Bush to pull out of Iraq, short of cutting off funds which no one is contemplating.

ECONOMIST: America's mid-term elections

Still, floating-rate bond funds may be the best fixed-income deal available in an environment of rising short-term interest rates.

FORBES: Fixed Income for Bears

The Senate committee said funds had to be switched from short-term goals to building an intelligence agency that met the challenge of the 21st century.

BBC: US losing hi-tech spying race

The former Wigan boss, backed by millionaire owner Ellis Short, has funds available to further strengthen his squad and revealed there could be plenty more arrivals at the Stadium of Light before the start of the new season.

BBC: Sunderland withdraw Crouch offer