The conclave to choose the Pope Benedict the 16th's successor could start earlier than the original date of March the 15th.

The Vatican says the gathering may be brought forward if enough cardinals are in Rome.

A spokesman says events could move more quickly because they are dealing with a resignation rather than a death.

Vatican spokesperson Federico Lombardi had claimed that a conclave could not take place before mid-March.

The secret meeting will take place in the Sistine Chapel and will last for a number of days.