Police have said they are seeking advice from the Crown Prosection Service before pushing ahead with an investigation into claims that an Essex rector incited racial hatred.

An inquiry was launched after a parishioner complained about an article by the Rev Nigel Cooper in Rivenhall's parish magazine, claiming the US administration was a greater threat to world peace than terrorism.

Mr Cooper, rector at Church of England St Mary and All Saints' Church, Rivenhall, criticised the US in other ways, including misusing its international power and its role in Afghanistan.

Sgt Paul Brown, of Witham police, on Friday said no-one had yet been interviewed or arrested in connection with the probe.

Published Monday, March 18, 2002