Pope visit
Thursday, 16 September 2010 12:00 AM
The first official state visit of the Pope to Britain is taking place.
Opponents of the visit say the Vatican is not a genuine state and that it is an unsuitable occasion for public funding.
They are also incensed by the lack of action against paedophile priests in the Catholic Church and official views on homosexuality, abortion and condoms.
But British Catholics insist the visit will help relations between religions in the UK.
The Pope used his first speech in the country to warn against "atheist extremism" and "aggressive forms of secularism" in British society.
The comments angered secular and humanist organisations, but will delight faith groups.
Newsletter sign up