King opens new Moroccan parliament

King Hassan of Morocco has inaugurated the country's first two-chamber parliament, the result of general elections in November and earlier this month.

The King, who retains ultimate control over the government, said he would name a new prime minister shortly, but gave no indication who it might be.

It was the King's idea to introduce a two-chamber parliament, which he said would bring greater democracy and give Morocco's regions more say in national affairs.

The two houses are dominated by pro-government and centre parties.

Islamist deputies won only six seats in the lower house.

From the newsroom of the BBC World Service