The head of the Muslim Council of Britain has condemned what he describes as "the climate of fear" and prejudice experienced by many Muslims in the UK, and has called on the authorities to stamp out prejudice and promote fair treatment.

The peace and tranquility associated with religious life has been rudely punctured in a convent in Italy, which is being shut down after a fight between its last three remaining nuns - in a dispute which has resulted in a letter to the Pope.