TIMESONLINE: King Abdullah II of Saudi Arabia was greeted by jeers and placards as he began his state visit to Britain this afternoon as dozens of demonstrators turned out to protest at his country's human rights record.
About 50 human rights protestors and anti-arms trade activists mingled with the crowds lining The Mall as the monarch accompanied the Queen in a carriage on their way to Buckingham Palace.
King Abdullah’s visit has been shrouded in controversy over oppressive policies against women and gays in the Middle Eastern kingdom and the war on terror.
Protesters, including Peter Tatchell, the gay rights activist, chanted "King Abdullah, torturer, murderer" and held banners marked "Put human rights before BAe profits" and "You can’t do this in Riyadh" as the procession went past. Saudi King jeered as controversial visit begins (more) By Jack Malvern
