The Daily Telegraph accuses Vladimir Putin of seeking economic revenge on a former Soviet republic that has dared to declare its diplomatic independence.

The Times concludes that the lesson for Europe is clear: its energy lifelines must never depend on Russia.

The Daily Mirror agrees. "The gas crisis," it says, "should send a shiver through the whole of western Europe".

According to the Daily Mail, industry leaders in the UK have warned that factories could be shut as the gas crisis sends prices soaring in Britain.

Iraq reconstruction

Meanwhile, the Guardian reports that the Bush administration has scaled back its plans for the rebuilding of Iraq.

The paper says officials will not be seeking further funds when budget proposals are submitted next month.

Debt crisis

The Independent focuses on a debt crisis, saying two thirds of credit card debt in the EU is British.

The Daily Telegraph declares 2006 the "year of rising prices" with train fares up 9%, power bills up 12% and council tax set to soar.

Business leaders are said to be worried that constantly rising household bills are undermining consumer confidence.

The Daily Express reports that prices of summer air tickets have been slashed by 25%.

Gambling 'awe'

In the Times, gambling is the focus with an interview with chairman of the Gambling Commission, Peter Dean.

Culture Secretary Tessa Jowell had told MPs that the industry would look upon the commission with "awe".

Clever buses

Self-driving buses are to be tested in Cambridge, the Times reports.

On-board cameras follow white lines painted on the road, enabling electronic systems to steer the bus with an accuracy of 4mm.

The paper says it will make it possible to have bus lanes on roads previously thought too narrow. But the system cannot work with snow or spillages.