In a sane world, this would be explosive news that would lead to world governments coming together in a massive judicial and law enforcement effort. Can I call their BFFs “traitors” now, please? Wild-eyed conspiracy foilsheet The Guardian

Saudi Arabia’s rulers threatened to make it easier for terrorists to attack London unless corruption investigations into their arms deals were halted, according to court documents revealed yesterday.

Previously secret files describe how investigators were told they faced “another 7/7” and the loss of “British lives on British streets” if they pressed on with their inquiries and the Saudis carried out their threat to cut off intelligence.

Prince Bandar, the head of the Saudi national security council, and son of the crown prince, was alleged in court to be the man behind the threats to hold back information about suicide bombers and terrorists. He faces accusations that he himself took more than £1bn in secret payments from the arms company BAE.  Read more 

Because clearly, the Windsors aren’t in charge:

A two-year corruption investigation by the Serious Fraud Office (SFO) into a £60 million “slush fund” that was allegedly set up for members of Saudi Arabia’s royal family was discontinued today.

Payments, in the form of lavish holidays, a fleet of luxury cars including a gold Rolls-Royce, rented apartments and other perks, are alleged to have been paid to ensure the Saudis continued to buy from BAE under the so-called Al-Yamamah deal.

The announcement by Lord Goldsmith, the Attorney General, follows threats by Saudi Arabia to suspend ties with Britain unless Downing Street intervened to block the investigation.  Read more