Children as young as nine believe binge drinking is normal behaviour, with one-third seeing nothing unusual in adults consuming five or more glasses of wine a night.

A survey also found more than one-quarter thought drinking four pints of beer in an evening was acceptable.

All involved in the justice system are today being urged to 'play their part' in making sure vulnerable witnesses receive the support they need to give their best evidence.

Justice Minister Kenny MacAskill will make the call when he hosts a conference with an audience of solicitors, sheriffs, social workers and police to discuss the implementation of the Vulnerable Witnesses Act.

A high-profile campaign aims to get people leading healthier lifestyles by following simple, achievable steps.

The £500,000 'Take Life On' initiative will feature TV, radio and billboard adverts and a dedicated website, with the message that making small changes in our everyday lives will help reduce the risk of serious illnesses and leave us feeling good about ourselves.

Housing associations are being told by the Scottish Government they will have to compete for lowered levels of funding for affordable homes.

The money available for each house and flat is to be cut as part of the SNP administration's efficiency drive. This is intended to release £9m this year from government spending, rising to £21m next year and £33m by 2010-11.