Melbourne, May 1 (AFP) Vatican finance chief Cardinal George Pell pleaded not guilty today after being ordered to stand trial on multiple historical sexual offence charges in Australia.

The 76-year-old, who entered the Melbourne court with a heavy police presence, said "not guilty" without hesitation when asked.

Melbourne magistrate Belinda Wallington said there was enough evidence to send the top adviser to Pope Francis to face a jury on "multiple" charges, while dismissing other allegations against him. (AFP) CK

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