The Nifty 250: News of the day in so many words

MICHAEL HESELTINE WILL DECIDE THE FATE OF MERSEYTRAM if the Conservatives take power, David Cameron has said. The former Minister for Merseyside has been asked by the Tory leader to report back on the £400m-plus Line One Liverpool to Kirkby tram route.

Cameron admitted he thought it was unlikely his party would win seats in Liverpool in the forthcoming General Election, but said the party could not form the next Government without winning in Wirral, Sefton, and Warrington.

SCHOOLS OPENING IN THE SNOW have hit out at rules which mark them down for poor attendance.

Calling the Government ruling “absurd”, headteachers said it was “ridiculous” schools were being penalised for offering lessons.

The Department for Children Schools and Families confirmed, “The absence percentage for a school that stays open may be higher than if it had closed, if significant numbers of pupils are unable to attend”.

THE ARCHBISHOP OF LIVERPOOL IS URGING PARISHIONERS to stay at home and pray instead of venturing out to church in the treacherous conditions.

The Most Reverend Patrick Kelly said, “Unless you are certain it is safe for you to do so, whether it is by foot, car, or public transport, do not attempt to go to Mass. if in doubt, stay at home and pray there.”

THE CITY’S GO PENGUINS ARE GOING on Sunday. Of the 235 taken off the streets, 70 of the colourful birds will be auctioned to raise money for the Lord Mayor’s charities, WWF and Liverpool Unites.