mysql batch mode

[admin]

Using mysql on Linux, I want to set up some batch reporting using cron to schedule it all.

How can I get a script to connect to the database without needing to interactively supply the password. Something like ...
-------------------------------------------
#! /bin/sh

mysql localhost -u bloggs - p gobbledygook < control_file > report_file

-------------------------------------------

Probably trivial, but I cant see how to get round it.

I have RTFM several times but must be missing the point.

All suggestions appreciated.

Thanks

Paul