Inquest launched into Saddam hanging

Last Modified: 02 Jan 2007
By: Jonathan Rugman

Iraq's top prosecutor says he nearly halted Saddam's execution because of the abuse by those attending.

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Saddam Hussein's execution was almost brought to a halt - according to a senior Iraqi official - as the former dictator was jeered and taunted while he stood on the gallows.

The Iraqi government has now launched an investigation into how footage of the hanging was illicitly filmed - and how mobile phone cameras were smuggled in.

Here the deputy Prime Minister John Prescott has fuelled the controversy - describing the manner of Saddam's death as 'deplorable'.

Our diplomatic correspondent Jonathan Rugman's report contains images some viewers may find disturbing.