Briefs | Apple withdraws some apps after malware found

Apple Inc. says it has removed some applications from its App Store after they were found to contain malicious software in an unusual security breach. The company yesterday blamed the breach on the use by some developers of a fake version of a software tool that was posted on Chinese websites and included the malicious software. Tencent Ltd., operator of the popular WeChat social media service, said its software was affected and the company released a new version after its security researchers found the malicious code.

Britain to guarantee mainland investment in new nuclear plant

The British government says it will underwrite 2 billion pounds (USD3.1 billion) in Chinese financing for a new nuclear power plant in southwest England, as it encourages major Chinese investment in Britain’s nuclear sector. Treasury chief George Osborne, who is on a trip to China, says Britain will underwrite China’s stake in the Hinckley Point power station. He says the deal “opens the door to majority Chinese ownership of a subsequent nuclear project” planned for England’s southeast. British officials hope yesterday’s announcement will encourage France’s EDF Energy, the lead investor, to make a final decision this year to build the plant, which would be Britain’s first new nuclear station in two decades. The project, which had been due to start producing electricity in 2023, has been mired in delays.