Jackson in Britain and wants to stay

Michael Jackson is living in a Berkshire mansion and hopes to stay in Britain.

The Mail on Sunday discovered that the singer asked if he could buy a stately home in Berkshire where the Profumo sex scandal took place.

Jackson and his three children have been staying on and off at the mansion – currently a hotel – for the past month.

His official spokesman said the reclusive star was keen to remain in the UK. "It would surprise no one if Michael ended up staying in Britain," he confirmed. "Michael has been in the UK for several weeks now. It is very unlikely he will return to the US. Europe and Britain in particular feel like a safe haven to him at this time."

Jackson has been living in Bahrain since being cleared of child sex charges, but he is not thought to be keen on staying there permanently.

A source close to the singer told the newspaper: "Michael has a special affinity for Britain and can see himself living there."