This year another issue may generate debate - only one artist on the shortlist is British-born.

BBC: Turner shortlist show unveiled

The row provoked heated debate on Sina Weibo - one of China's Twitter equivalents.

BBC: China 'to probe badminton loss' as players charged

Whether Obama's plea is taken as an effective tactic that will help spur legislative action or is seen as a cheap, emotional ploy designed to push through a one-sided agenda depends on where you fall in the debate, political experts say.

CNN: Obama's emotional plea might lead to vote on guns