spearheaded
efforts to try to force Iran to stop its nuclear programme.
The Italian government has taken emergency measures to conserve gas supplies as bitterly cold weather grips the country. At least 24 people have died in the harsh conditions, and gas consumption has reached an all-time high. From Rome, Alan Johnston.
Like so much of Europe, Italy has been enduring intense cold and heavy snowfall for days now. At the same time, Italy has received less gas imports from Russia than it wanted, so an emergency plan has now been activated. Some power stations will
switch from
gas to oil fuel, and some industrial customers will have their gas supplies cut. The aim is to protect domestic users from shortages.
Pope Benedict has called for a profound renewal at every level of the Catholic Church to help prevent child abuse. He said healing for victims must be of
paramount
concern. The Pope's comments came in a statement to the first-ever Vatican conference on child abuse attended by Catholic leaders from over 100 countries. Some victim support groups have criticised the conference, calling it a PR
stunt
.
A gas explosion in the Pakistani city of Lahore has destroyed a three-storey factory, killing at least 10 women and three children. Rescuers fear many more may be trapped in the rubble of the factory which made veterinary medicines. Officials say more than 60 workers were meant to be working in the building. Narrow streets have