Britons held by Iran can sell stories to media

The 15 British sailors and marines held by Iran for 13 days will be allowed to sell their stories to the media, in a break with usual rules, Britain's Defence Ministry said on Saturday.

Serving personnel are not normally allowed to sell their stories but the ministry decided to grant the 15 permission due to the huge media interest, said a ministry spokeswoman. "These are considered to be exceptional circumstances," she said. Media reports have said the sailors could earn as much as 250,000 pounds ($493,500) between them. (Reuters)