Sales of kitchen appliances have more than doubled in the run up to Christmas, said retailer John Lewis. The department store chain said it is hopeful of a last minute spending rush ahead of the holidays. – The Telegraph.

More than 100 million people are expected to visit retail websites as the world catches up on its last-minute Christmas shopping online. For the first time there are expected to be more than 3 billion visits to internet retailers in December, according to the credit checking group Experian. – The Times

The Serious Fraud Office has launched a formal investigation into allegations of bribery and corruption at engine maker Rolls-Royce that could lead to criminal prosecutions. – The Telegraph

The SFO’s move amounts to a stepping up of its inquiry into Rolls-Royce, which last year disclosed that the law enforcement agency had asked for information about allegations of malpractice in Indonesia and China. – The Financial Times

The cost of renting a property in England and Wales rose twice as fast as weekly earnings in the 11-months to November, amid surging demand for homes. – The Independent