A LEGAL hearing in the case of five-year-old brain tumour patient Ashya King is taking place today.

The telephone High Court hearing involved UK and Spanish lawyers representing the boy's parents, Brett and Naghmeh King.

Ashya is in the Materno-Infantil hospital in Malaga, having been whisked from Southampton General Hospital last week by his parents in search of treatment after a disagreement with medical staff.

His parents were initially arrested and held in Spain before a public outcry led to a European Arrest Warrant being withdrawn, and they were tearfully reunited.

Portsmouth City Council, which has responsibilities for Ashya's welfare, began family court litigation last week - asking for directions about the youngster's treatment.

A full hearing is due to take place at the High Court on Monday.

Mr Justice Baker said on Tuesday he hoped that Mr and Mrs King would be able to take part then - either in person or via a television link.