Cant help with the lens question, but i could send you a shift key!!
Judging by what you are looking at I presume you are after a fast lens so I would go for the Nikon 17-55mm f/2.8, it's a cracking lens, very sharp and built like a tank. Keep an eye out on ebay as you should be able to pick one up for around £550, mine was under £500 but it was quite well used although that does not bother me as the optics are in A1 condition.
Hope this helps.
thanks guys
sorry about the caps ........man you guys are touchy!