11:57am UK, Tuesday November 25, 2003

Pop star Michael Jackson has broken his silence on the latest child sex allegations, calling them "a big lie".

Jackson said he would prove himself innocent in court and put "this horrible time" behind him.

Michael Jackson on arrest

The statement was released via an "official" website set up by the star to provide his own "authorised" statements on the case.

The latest allegations are believed to come from a 12 or 13-year-old cancer sufferer.

Jackson said: "To my fans, friends and family: As you know, the charges recently directed at me are terribly serious.

"They are, however, predicated on a big lie. This will be shown in court, and we will be able to put this horrible time behind us."

Jackson said he would not be providing a "running commentary" on the case and that he was limited on what he could say due to the legal proceedings.

Jackson's Neverland Ranch in California was searched by around 60 police officers last Tuesday.

The singer was arrested in Santa Barbara, California, on suspicion of sexual abuse and freed on £1.87m bail. On his release, he flew by private jet back to Las Vegas where is shooting a music video.

He is due in court on January 9.

Jackson's website address is www.mjnews.us