Saudi authorities close internet clubs

The authorities in Saudi Arabia are reported to have blocked access to all internet computer clubs where subscribers were exchanging pornographic material.

A senior Saudi official was quoted as saying the measure was introduced because it was hard for the authorities to control the clubs.

Saudi Arabia is a deeply religious and conservative country, where pornography in any form is forbidden.

The BBC Middle East correspondent says this move will deal a serious blow to freedom of information in Saudi society, where the internet provides one of the few opportunities for young people to express their feelings and discuss certain taboo topics.

From the newsroom of the BBC World Service