US seeks October trial for Moussaoui

The US Government has asked a federal judge to set an October start date for the much-delayed trial of accused September 11 conspirator Zacarias Moussaoui.

The move comes a day after the US Supreme Court rejected an appeal by Moussaoui, who argued he could not get a fair trial without access to Al Qaeda captives who could help prove he was not involved in the attack.

The US Government said national security could be compromised if Moussaoui was allowed to question the captives.

Prosecutors have proposed starting jury selection on October 3, with opening statements to begin on October 31.

Moussaoui is a French citizen of Moroccan descent.

He was arrested on immigration charges before the September 11 attacks.