Afghan delegates agree formula for interim govt

The Northern Alliance has reportedly agreed on a formula with representatives of the deposed king, Zahir Shah, for an interim government in Afghanistan.

The 42-member council, which will rule the country until a council of tribal leaders can be convened in March, will comprise 21 members of the alliance and 21 members loyal to Mr Shah.

The deal agreed this morning appears to snub the other delegates attending the talks on a new Afghan administration, including two important groups of exiles based in Pakistan and Cyprus.