Pope Benedict XVI's state visit

Pope Benedict XVI arrives in the UK this Thursday to start a four-day tour. It's the first ever state visit to Britain by a pontiff. But the trip comes as the Catholic Church continues to deal with a large-scale sex abuse scandal.

FOCUS

By Philip CROWTHER

19/10/2009 - IRAN

What's really behind Iran's nuclear programme?

Iran once again meets with world powers about its nuclear programme in Vienna on Monday, amid continuing international concern that the Islamic republic is concealing its desire to build atomic weapons.

16/10/2009 - SPAIN

The pro-life lobby mobilises in Madrid

Spanish pro-life groups are organising a big demonstration for October 17 in Madrid against proposed landmark legislation for this autumn giving women the right to abortion.

16/10/2009 - USA

California's overcrowded jails

Describing conditions in California's overcrowded jails as "woefully and constitutionally inadequate", a federal panel has ordered the Golden State to reduce its prison population of 170,000 by a quarter.

15/10/2009 - NUCLEAR ENERGY

French nuclear policy clouded in secrecy

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14/10/2009 - FRANCE

International media scorn Jean Sarkozy's appointment

The imminent promotion of French President Nicolas Sarkzoy's son Jean to head a government agency has provoked outrage in France and abroad, where international media have piled scorn upon Sarkozy senior's latest move.

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- Benedict XVI - Catholic Church - paedophilia - UK - Vatican