Interest rates to hit 6%, hints Bank Aug 9 2007
BANK of England policymakers signalled borrowers could face a hike in interest rates to 6% before the end of the year. The Bank’s key quarterly inflation report suggested a further rate rise could be needed this autumn. more

Growing success for the family Aug 9 2007
AJM Dream Gardens, based in Consett, County Durham, was set up by entrepreneur Martin Boyle, who already ran a natural stone business. AJM Dream Gardens, based in Consett, County Durham, was set up by entrepreneur Martin Boyle. more

£2m homes deals in frame for pair Aug 9 2007
A FLEDGLING timber frame manufacturer is on the verge of signing two deals, worth £2m, that will double its turnover and workforce by next year. more

PROFITS at Gateshead construction company Tolent have fallen by nearly 30% to £1.5m in the first half of 2007. Aug 9 2007
Turnover also suffered – falling nearly 10% to £76.2m as several contracts suffered delays. more

Jobs safe in deal over NEL Power Aug 9 2007
MORE than 50 jobs will be saved after Teesside power station builder NEL Power was bought out of administration by a competitor. more

Hotel connected to 21st Century Aug 9 2007
ONE of the most historic hotels in the North-East has just come bang up-to-date by investing in a wi-fi network and offering guests unlimited free internet access. more

A FIERCE argument about the distinctly unsexy issue of “net neutrality” is rumbling on in the US right now – and it could spell the end of the internet as we know it. Aug 9 2007
In simple terms, net neutrality is the guiding principle that preserves the free and open internet. more