Papers keep focus on pensions row

The pensions controversy remains the focus of much attention, with the government berated by the Daily Mail for its handling of the matter.

The crucial issue, fundamental to the lives of millions, has descended to leaks, lurches and spin, it says.

Daily Telegraph carries a poll showing a third of people want the public sector retirement age raised to 65.

The paper suggests ditching all but a minimum flat rate state pension, to encourage people to save.

DNA tests

More than 3,000 men wrongly named as absent fathers are to be repaid hundreds of thousands of pounds in maintenance cash, the Guardian reports.

The paper says the CSA is having to return the money after DNA tests proved they were not the children's fathers.

Meanwhile, the Times reports on plans to stop men who kill their wives in fits of anger from escaping life sentences by claiming provocation.

"Jealousy is no longer an excuse for murder," its front page headline reads.

Rain forests

The suspected killers of two British soldiers in Iraq will not face trial, according to the Sun.

Under the headline "No justice", it explains this is because Foreign Office officials fear the suspects could be executed if found guilty.

The Independent leads on plans by a group of developing countries to ask rich nations to pay them for conserving the rain forests.

The Rainforest Coalition is due to make the request at a UN summit in Montreal.

Spud gun ban

Finally, the chief constable head of Greater Manchester Police has ordered a ban on toy guns this Christmas, the Daily Express reports.

According to the paper, the ban includes spud guns and water pistols.

A force spokesman says toys can be so realistic they are hard to tell apart from the real thing.

But parents and toymakers quoted describe the ban as an example of a "nanny" culture that is sweeping the country and destroying old traditions.