In Britain, the government had suffered an embarrassing defeat over EU funding. A rebellion by MPs from the governing conservatives saw parliament vote for a cut to the EU's budget. The government had wanted parliament to approve a freeze in the budget ahead negotiations between Britain and other member states later this month. Here is our political correspondent Rob Watson.

This is not a binding vote on the government and doesn't tie its hands in its negotiations with other EU states. But it is, nonetheless,a humiliating defeat for the Prime Minister David Cameron. Critics say it suggests he's not in full control of his own Conservative Party, and doesn't command the respects of all his MPs. Beyond that, it's a

reminder

of the decades-long divisions within the Conservative Party over Europe, and the parties increasingly sceptical approach to the EU. Worryingly, for Mr Cameron it may also be a sign of further rebellions to come over Europe.

South African police say two striking mine workers have been shot dead by security guards as they tried to break into an

armoury

at a mine in the province of KwaZulu Natal. The two men were part of a group of miners who have gathered to demand better pay. Police say they are investigating two charges of murder. The mine owner the Canadian firm Forbes & Manhattan have temporarily suspended operations there. South Africa's mining sector has been rocked by a series of strikes this year.