In Germany, Health Minister Ulla Schmidt has decided, at least for the time being, not to take part in her SPD party's campaign for elections later this year. She is at the centre of a furore because she had her government limousine drive to Spain where she was holidaying.

The affair became more complicated when the luxury Mercedes, which was not insured, was stolen there. Ms Schmidt maintains the car was needed for official engagements in Spain but has withdrawn from the campaign temporarily for the good of the party.

photo: Ulla Schmidt (flickr.com/Jusos de)