French justice minister pregnant

Dati is the first person of north African origin to get a top government post

French Justice Minister Rachida Dati has confirmed rumours that she is pregnant, media reports say.

Ms Dati, who is not married, has declined to name the father, and was quoted by newspaper Le Monde as saying her private life was "complicated".

She was drafted into the cabinet by President Nicolas Sarkozy last year.

She has been hailed as a model for immigrant communities, rising to the top as the daughter of a Moroccan father and an Algerian mother.

"I want to remain prudent, because it isn't yet safe. I'm still in the danger zone," she is quoted as saying on the website of Le Monde, referring to the risk of a possible miscarriage.

"I am 42 years old and have always said that [having a child] was fundamental for me," she said.

"If it goes ahead, I will be happy and have the feeling I've looped the loop."

She is thought to be the fourth French minister to become pregnant while in office.

Segolene Royal, who was beaten by Mr Sarkozy in last year's presidential election, had a baby while in office.

Rumours had started circulating that Ms Dati was pregnant earlier in the week.

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