All 16 people who had come into contact with the envelopes were being kept under observation in hospital and given antibiotics as a precautionary measure.

CNN: Police calm German anthrax fears

Gordon Brown's plans to provide 400, 000 vulnerable elderly people free help with the likes of washing, eating and bathing in their homes - rather than moving them to residential care - had been due to come into effect on 1 October, subject to the bill being passed.

BBC: Government in 'retreat' over personal care for elderly