The United Nations Security Council has been having discussions aimed at finding a new approach to relations with Iraq following the American-led air raids.

Further talks are planned for later today Tuesday 1530G but the BBC UN correspondent says the process is likely to be slow and difficult.

One ambassador predicted it would take weeks before a consensus emerges.

The United States and Britain have said they want to see the UN weapons inspectors continue with their work, but the authorities in Baghdad have said there is no possibility of them being allowed to return to Iraq.