The trial in the United States of the only man charged so far over the 11 September attacks has been postponed by nearly three months.

A federal judge in Washington ruled that the high-profile trial of Zacarias Moussaoui would now start in early January.

The court's paramount concern is ensuring that the defendant receive a fair trial

Judge Leonie Brinkema

The reason for the delay was given as the volume and complexity of evidence against 34-year-old Mr Moussaoui, who is accused of conspiring to commit acts of terrorism.

He has denied involvement in the 11 September hijackings, but has admitted to being a member of al-Qaeda.

The US blames Osama Bin Laden and his al-Qaeda network for the attacks nearly a year ago in which about 3,000 people died.

Lack of preparedness

Mr Moussaoui is regarded by the US authorities as the "20th hijacker" - the other 19 alleged co-conspirators having died on board the aircraft they seized.

Jury selection was due to begin next month but Mr Moussaoui - who is representing himself - had asked for a postponement, arguing that the strict conditions of his confinement made it impossible to prepare his defence in time.

Moussaoui faces charges of conspiracy to commit terrorism

His team of court-appointed lawyers also requested a delay, saying they also needed more time to study the case papers.

Prosecutors had opposed a delay, saying the public and victims deserved a speedy resolution of the case.

But in her three-page ruling, Judge Leonie Brinkema said that although this was a legitimate concern "this court's paramount concern is ensuring that the defendant receives a fair trial".

Moussaoui was detained on immigration charges before 11 September.

His trial is now scheduled to begin on 6 January, with jury selection scheduled for 18 November.