Industrial giant Siemens has announced plans to axe 4,200 jobs worldwide in order to simplify its business structure and make its IT business “fit for the future”.

Nissan has announced plans to build its new electric car – the Nissan Leaf – in Sunderland, creating 550 jobs and helping secure the jobs of 2,250 people across Nissan’s UK supply chain.

The Co-operative Group has announced record 2009 annual financial results, with sales up 31% and a 38% growth in new customer bank accounts.