Papers cover more economic woes

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The latest forecast for Britain's national debt dominates many of the day's papers.

A big number is splashed across the Daily Mail's front page - a two, followed by 12 zeros.

The paper describes the figure of Â£2tn as "terrifying" and says it represents Â£33,000 for every man, woman and child.

The Daily Telegraph says it was one of a "barrage of astonishingly grim" newly-published economic statistics.

Compensation row

Two papers comment on the decision to award preacher Abu Qatada compensation for his detention without trial under Britain's anti-terrorism laws.

The Sun criticises the European Court of Human Rights, describing the judgment as a humiliation for Britain.

But the Independent argues the responsibility for what it calls this "shambles" lies with the government.

The paper says ministers saw fit to lock up Abu Qatada without charge and without evidence of law-breaking.

Meanwhile, the Times presents evidence that it claims throws doubt on the conviction of Eddie Gilfoyle, sentenced to life in prison 16 years ago.

He was convicted for the murder of his heavily-pregnant wife.

But the paper says long-lost notes of police interviews have emerged, suggesting that he was at work when his 32-year-old wife, Paula, died.

Divine inspiration

Elsewhere in the papers, the Daily Mirror covers what it calls "mindless" lorry drivers who risk bringing death and carnage to roads.

And Gordon Brown was at the Vatican to see the Pope and seek his help, if the cartoonists are to believed.

The Sun shows him kneeling before the Pontiff, urging him: "You might just have a word about the poll ratings?"

As tickets for the 2010 World Cup in South Africa go on sale, the Times asks how many England fans will apply.

A spokesman for fans says the credit crunch, the distance and a sense of realism after England failed to qualify for Euro 2008 will limit enthusiasm.