Republicans in the US Senate are asking Democrats to delay the start of former President Donald Trump’s impeachment trial until February, writes BBC. They argue that this will give Trump time to prepare a defence.

The House of Representatives last week charged Trump with inciting a deadly riot at the US Capitol, paving the way for a Senate trial that could see him barred from holding public office. The Senate’s top Democrat, Chuck Schumer, is reviewing the request.

Some Democrats back a delay, saying it will give the Senate more time to confirm cabinet nominees, but others say a speedy trial is necessary to allow the country to move on.