Ms Halliwell was photographed carrying a copy of the Scientology Handbook - the "bible" of believers. She has also been seen reading the thick volume in cafes and restaurants in Beverley Hills.

Since splitting from the Spice Girls, who currently hold the number one spot in the British singles charts, the woman who was Ginger Spice has been taking time out to plan her future.

If she did decide to join the Church of Scientology, it would be a controversial step, albeit one that several famous performers have taken before.

In the US, Scientology enjoys the full rights of a recognised religion but it has been attacked in Germany for allegedly brainwashing its followers and persuading them to part with large sums of money.

John Travolta: a well known believer in Scientology

The cult has attracted several Hollywood stars - including Tom Crusie and Nicole Kidman, John Travolta and Lisa-Marie Presley .

Several other celebrities including Fatal Attraction star Anne Archer, Cheers actress Kirstie Alley and singer Isaac Hayes are reported to have donated millions to the sect.

What is Scientology?

Scientology was founded in Los Angeles in the 1950s by the late science fiction author, L Ron Hubbard.

Scientologists believe human beings contain the souls of Thetans - immortal creatures responsible for making the universe. They say a Thetan is the spiritual being, "as distinct from mind or body".

They say they don't, as some reports suggest, believe that the world has been invaded by dark forces - the Engrams.

An engram, they say, "is simply a recording of a time of pain and unconsciousness".

Individuals can be cleansed and enlightened only through intense therapy called Dianetics.

This is done through intensive counseling with mental pain measured with an special meter designed by Hubbard.

Scientology HQ in the States

Treated with suspicion

The cult has been the subject of concern in Britain amid claims that new members are manipulate and enticed into spending large sums of money on Scientology courses.

In 1968 the Home Office banned several of the church's senior members form Britain. The ban was lifted in 1980.

Four years later, Mr Justice Latey described the church as "corrupt, sinister and dangerous".

The Scientologists say the case concerned contained "wildly inaccurate allegations" against them.

Elsewhere In Europe, the business side of Scientology has prompted several governments to deprive it of tax exemptions enjoyed by other churches.