French anti-racists sue Yahoo

A French anti-racism group has filed a law suit against the American internet provider, Yahoo, accusing it of allowing access to websites auctioning Nazi memorabilia.

The group, the International League Against Racism and Anti-Semitism, LICRA, said the court in Paris should force Yahoo to stop the sales in France.

It also said it wanted Yahoo to be fined about a-hundred-thousands dollars a day until it complies.

The auction website has been offering hundreds of Nazi-related items, such as pictures, coins, flags, daggers and uniforms.

Correspondents say France has strict laws against selling or displaying anything inciting racism, including Nazi-related items.

But they say it's not clear how access to a worldwide website can be blocked in France only. The law suit is due to be heard in Paris on May-the-fifteenth.

From the newsroom of the BBC World Service