Pope Backs Public Display of Christian Symbols

Pope Benedict XVI stepped into an increasingly international debate on the display of religious symbols at the weekend, saying: "Religion, like the church, must be recognised as a public, community presence."

British Airways is considering a final appeal by a check-in worker who was told she could not wear a cross outside her uniform, and in Italy, despite widespread political backing for the display of Christian symbols, crucifixes are becoming rarer, particularly in schools.

A 1924 law made it compulsory for classrooms in Italy to have a crucifix on the wall.