Pope Benedict has changed Roman Catholic Church law regulating the conclave that will elect his successor, meaning it can start earlier, the Vatican said on Monday.
The change to a constitution by his predecessor John Paul means the cardinals no longer have to wait 15 days after the papacy becomes vacant on February 28 before they start the conclave.
The conclave can now start before March 15.
Reporting By Philip Pullella.
© 2013 Thomson Reuters. All rights reserved.
