Around the World: United Kingdom

Home minister apologizes

Britain's Home Secretary apologized yesterday for claiming on parliamentary expenses for the cost of five movies - including two adult ones - screened at her home.

Jacqui Smith claimed for two unnamed adult movies that were shown on pay-per view television channels at her family home in April 2008. They were rated 18, which means they are not suitable viewing for anyone under that age. The classification is given to movies that depict graphic sex or extreme violence.