Papers blast Brown over pensions

http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/rss/-/1/hi/uk/6520621.stm

Version 0 of 1.

Chancellor Gordon Brown is criticised in most of the papers over his controversial pension reforms in his first Budget a decade ago.

The Financial Times quotes a senior business figure who says the decision to abolish tax relief on share dividends created "a complete mess".

The Daily Express says the chancellor's credibility is "in tatters".

Only the Daily Mirror stands by Mr Brown, saying it is "crass" to paint him as the pensions "baddie" when he has done so much to help the elderly.

'Softer tone'

Several papers see some grounds for optimism in the crisis over the 15 British naval personnel held captive in Iran.

The Times says that after "a weekend of angry statements and violent scenes", Iran has now adopted a "softer tone".

The Daily Telegraph says hopes are rising after Iranian security chief Ali Larijani "ruled out" a show trial.

The Independent claims a "botched" attempt by American forces to kidnap two Iranian officials in Iraq in January provoked the current crisis.

'Booby-trap'

The 25th anniversary of the Falklands War also makes headlines.

General Sir Michael Rose, who led British forces in the conflict, criticises Foreign Secretary Margaret Beckett in the Daily Mail.

He says she was "quite wrong" to express equal regret for lives lost on both sides.

The Sun speaks to Falklander Sarah Clement, who was five when war broke out, and says Argentine soldiers booby-trapped her doll with a grenade.

'Camera lottery'

Complaints about speed cameras get several papers fired up.

The Guardian says in some areas drivers can escape being "flashed" despite going up to 15mph over the limit.

The Daily Express says there is widespread variation in camera sensitivity across the UK and calls the situation a "scandal".

Meanwhile, the Daily Mirror tells the story of pensioner Kathleen Williams who was reported to the police for drink driving by her own daughter.