Smog, privatisation and Aids: Today's papers

THE GOVERNMENT has become so concerned about air pollution that it is considering rationing the use of cars in London, a report in the Observer says. John Gummer, the Environment Secretary, is considering a trial in which motorists with odd and even numbers on their licence plates would be asked to leave their cars at home on alternate days.

According to the People, the Labour Party has turned down an offer of pounds 5m from a Bangladeshi multi-millionaire, Dr Moosa Bin-Shamsher, because it objects in principle to contributions from overseas.

In the Mail on Sunday, the former Master of the Rolls Lord Donaldson suggests a new category of 'not proved' verdicts to prevent fundamental miscarriages of justice.

The Sunday Times claims that Oliver Hoare, the art dealer plagued by telephone calls from the Princess of Wales's private apartments, is being investigated by police over an alleged fraud involving art treasures which he sold to the Sultan of Brunei.

The Sunday Express reports that Roderick Lane, a therapist who treated Princess Diana, has been evicted from his consulting rooms in Harley Street, following allegations about his professional qualifications.

Two council-owned tower blocks in Birmingham city centre have been filled with HIV- positive residents, reports the Sunday Mirror. The paper claims that tenants are dying at a rate of one a week.

Almost pounds 2m has been spent on the Government's campaign to sell the Post office, according to the Sunday Telegraph. The news has provoked criticism from unions and Labour MPs.