UN 'takes charge' of Libya file

Mr ElBaradei says the IAEA's role is clear

The United Nations nuclear agency has reached agreement with Britain and the US over responsibility for dismantling Libya's nuclear programme.

In a brief statement, International Atomic Energy Agency head Mohamed ElBaradei said his body would oversee the dismantling process.

But the IAEA would rely on logistical help from the US and UK, he said.

Correspondents at the Vienna talks say it appears the IAEA has managed to keep its mandate despite US and UK pressure.

'Clear mandate'

Mr ElBaradei has insisted all along that it was the IAEA's job to carry out verification of the state of Libya's nuclear weapon's programme.

"I think we have an agreement on what needs to be done. The agency's role is very clear. We need to do the verification," he told a news conference after Monday's meeting.

US undersecretary of state for arms control and international security John Bolton said: "It was a very constructive meeting. I think we're all on the same page with the IAEA. It's a very important project".

He declined further comment at the news conference.

Washington had previously said that - while there was a role for the UN agency - the US and Britain, who worked out the agreement with Libya, had specific responsibilities.

But in recent days both sides have sought to downplay the dispute.

Mr ElBaradei met Mr Bolton and his British counterpart, William Erman.

Teams of experts have already visited nuclear facilities in Libya. More are expected to go in coming days and weeks.