British cardinal says consider pope from "developing world"

Britain's most senior Roman Catholic, Cardinal Keith O'Brien, who will joint other cardinals in conclave to elect a new pope, says he would welcome a leader from outside of Europe.

(SOUNDBITE) (English) CARDINAL KEITH O'BRIEN, SAYING:

"Well I would be open to a pope from anywhere if I thought it was the right man, whether it was Europe or Asia or Africa or wherever. I think that is something which the cardinals have to think about seriously, having had popes from Europe for such a long time now, hundreds of years, whether it isn't time to think of the developing world as a source of excellent men."

Some might consider choosing a younger pope as well who is in touch with the myriad of challenges facing the church.

Cardinals are expected to convene and choose a new pope mid-March.