In brief...Unaffordable Christmas wish lists

Unaffordable Christmas wish lists could become a thing of the past in the Republic of Ireland if the Fine Gael party succeeds in banning advertising children's toys on television until after 6pm. Last week Fine Gael consumer protection spokeswoman Deirdre Clune called for a ban on toy advertisements during children's prime viewing hours. 'This should be the last Christmas where children's television programmes are targeted by toy advertisers when parents can't be watching as well,' Ms Clune said. 'What we need is a 6pm watershed for all advertising of children's products. Toy manufacturers claim they are targeting parents. If that...