Update: 12:35

Iain Gray steps into Wendy Alexander's shoes
Scotland's former social justice minister Iain Gray is today expected to meet the Scottish science advisory committee as he takes over the portfolio of enterprise, transport and lifelong learning following the shock resignation of Wendy Alexander on Friday.

Cumbria starts independent foot-and-mouth inquiry
Phil Thomas, chief executive of the Scottish Agricultural College and professor of agriculture at Glasgow University is chairing an independent inquiry into the foot-and-mouth crisis in Cumbria . The inquiry, which began today at the county council offices in Kendal, will focus on specific areas including outbreak and control issues, impact on the economy, the aftermath of the disease and future strategies.

Rosy prospects for apples in the classroom
An apple a day keeps the doctor away and improves schoolchildren's behaviour and academic performance according to an Oxfordshire headmaster. Peter Cansell has informed MPs and horticulture minister Lord Whitty that a research project by Bangor University to encourage pupils at Harwell Primary School to eat more fruit and vegetables has been a success.
 
Central Lancashire leads IT skills shortage scheme
The University of Central Lancashire has been selected to lead a new scheme to tackle skills shortages in information technology. It will lead one of 18 new technology institutes announced by Margaret Hodge, minister for lifelong learning.