Pinochet to be questioned in October

The judge in Chile investigating General Augusto Pinochet's involvement in alleged human rights abuses has announced he will question the former military leader in October.

The judge Juan Guzman said the interrogation would probably take place at General Pinochet's home on the outskirts of Santiago.

Earlier this month, the Chilean Supreme Court decided to strip General Pinochet of his immunity from prosecution so he could face charges in connection with a death squad which killed political opponents shortly after the 1973 coup.

He will first have to undergo medical tests to see if he is fit to stand trial. The BBC correspondent in Santiago says there is relief that the questioning will take place after annual celebrations honouring the country's armed forces.

From the newsroom of the BBC World Service