Sarkozy 'heart attack prayers'

Several churchmen joined the chorus yesterday criticising president Nicolas Sarkozy's decision to expel dozens of Roma from France, with one priest praying for Mr Sarkozy to be divinely struck by a heart attack.

Father Arthur Hervet of the church of St Martin Esquermes of Lille in northern of France said he was turning to God because he did not believe those in power have any plans to help the Roma, except deport them.

"I pray that Mr Sarkozy has a heart attack," said the 71 year-old priest, adding a war was being waged on the Roma community.