Outrage over Pope-branded condoms memo

The British Foreign Office has been forced to apologise over a "foolish" document which suggested a visit from the Pope could accompany the launch of "Benedict-branded" condoms.

The BBC reported that the paper in question was one of three "background documents" to a March 5 memo inviting officials in Whitehall and Downing Street to attend a meeting to discuss themes for the papal visit.

The document, called "The Ideal Visit Would See...", was obtained by the Sunday Telegraph.

It suggested the Pope be invited to open an abortion clinic and bless a same-sex marriage.

It went on to propose he could apologise for the Spanish Armada or sing a song with the Queen for charity.

The Foreign Office said the memo did not reflect its views and an investigation was launched after some recipients objected to its tone.

The Pope is due to visit Birmingham from September 16-19, as part of the planned beatification of Cardinal John Newman, and Scotland.

It is the first papal visit to the UK since John Paul II's of 1982.

- NZHERALD STAFF