However, whilst press attention is focussed on this public outpouring of grief, behind the scenes a bitter battle is taking place as to who will succeed the late Pope John Paul II to the Papal Seat.

Historically, the process is a complicated one, involving all the cardinals from across the globe descending on the Sistine Chapel to vote for their next Pope.

This conclave, as it is known, is a tradition which dates back for hundreds of years, and Pope-watchers have been claiming publicly that there is currently no front runner to take up the top post.

Until now.

As one Presidential advisor told us, 'being Pope is not just about religion, it’s a political role too, and we see Rummie being Pope as a great way to deliver American foreign policy objectives.’

If he does secure this new role this will mark a real change in direction for a man previously described by Henry Kissinger as ‘the most ruthless man I have ever met.’

Moreover, the move will change the answer to the old adage ‘is the Pope catholic?’ With Rummie in charge nobody will be quite sure.