Virgin Takes Lead in Northern Rock Bids

LONDON (AP) - Northern Rock PLC will hold accelerated takeover discussions with a consortium led by Virgin Group, the battered mortgage lender said Monday.

• Airbus to Sell 160 Jets to China
• Dollar Sinks to Euro
• Striking Hollywood Writers Turn to Web
• Oil Prices Rise Near $99 As Temps Fall
• Online Holiday Shopping Season Kicks Off

More Associated Press News