Saddam's trial - fair trial or farce?

BBC Radio 4's Law in Action was broadcast on Tuesday, 21 February, 2006 at 1600 GMT.

Last series we broadcast a special edition of "Law In Action" on the eve of the trial. All the early signs were that the proceedings would be complex, controversial and dangerous.

They have proved to be all of those, with touches of farce thrown in. As the key players draw breath during a recess, we have spoken to some of them about the claims and counterclaims surrounding the trial's fairness.

Saddam's defence team have been accused of abusing the trial process themselves, playing to the media, and boycotting the trial - a charge which they reject. One of the key members of the team, Dr Curtis Doebbler, explains the problems Saddam's lawyers have faced.

One of the most bitter criticisms is that the Americans are controlling the trial behind the scenes. John Bellinger, legal advisor to the State Department, rejects that accusation. And we speak to Michael Newton, Professor of Law at Vanderbilt University Law School, who played a crucial role in training the judges who are trying Saddam. He gives his reaction to the allegation that this is a puppet trial, orchestrated by the US.