The United Nations special rapporteur on religion has asked Germany to make clear why it has placed the Church of Scientology under surveillance.

The rapporteur rejected allegations by the Scientologists that Germany's attitude towards them is reminiscent of the Nazis.

But in a report to the UN Human Rights Commission he warned that the emotional debate about new religious movements may lead to prejudice, and asked Germany to begin a campaign against religious intolerance.

The German authorities say surveillance of Scientologists is necessary because of what they call the movement's anti-democratic activities.

Celebrity members of the church, such as John Travolta and Tom Cruise, have backed the campaign against Germany's policy.
 

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