143m audience for BBC service

LONDON - Up to 143 million people in 140 countries listen to the BBC's World Service every week, the BBC said today.

LONDON - Up to 143 million people in 140 countries listen to the BBC's World Service every week, the BBC said today.

The new figures for the government funded radio service, which broadcasts in 45 languages, mark an increase of three million in the past year.

They include estimates for the 10 largest cities in China but exclude audience numbers for Burma, Cuba and Iran where reliable research is note available.