Canadian PM against Saddam death penalty

OTTAWA, Dec. 19 (UPI) -- Canadian Prime Minister Paul Martin says he believes Saddam Hussein should not be executed if found guilty of war crimes.

"I personally do not believe in the death penalty," Martin told the Canadian Broadcasting Corp.

Martin's view differs from U.S. President George W. Bush who said the deposed dictator should receive "the ultimate penalty" if convicted.

Martin also reiterated comments the international community should be involved in Saddam's trial.

"Obviously there's going to be Iraqi involvement, but there also has to be a very important aspect of international involvement," he said. "What's most important is that whatever decision comes down is seen to be internationally credible."