Heavy security is in place for the visit of former US Secretary of State Henry Kissinger to a leading business conference.

The 78-year-old is facing demonstrators as he arrives to address the Institute of Directors annual convention in London.

The theme of the conference - globalisation - is also expected to spark protests from anti-globalisation campaigners.

Dr Kissinger's appearance at the Royal Albert Hall conference has caused controversy among civil rights groups and some left-wing MPs.

Human rights campaigner Peter Tatchell unsuccessfully applied for a warrant for Dr Kissinger's arrest under the Geneva Convention.

He has accused Dr Kissinger of aiding and abetting war crimes in Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia when he was US Secretary of State.

Spanish investigating judge Baltasar Garzon has asked for permission to interview Dr Kissinger and French judge Sophie-Helene Chateau has also been seeking to question the Nobel Peace Prize laureate.

Chateau is investigating the disappearance of five French nationals in Chile during the rule of General Pinochet.

Garzon is known for requesting the detention of General Pinochet during a private visit to Britain in 1998.

Story filed: 03:35 Wednesday 24th April 2002