Newcomer Gemma Arterton has been cast as the "Bond girl" for the latest instalment of the 007 franchise, currently shooting in London, the film's producer said.

The movie, which has the working title of "Bond 22," marks Daniel Craig's second turn as James Bond. Swiss-raised filmmaker Marc Forster ("The Kite Runner") is directing the Columbia Pictures/MGM production.

Details of Arterton's character, known as Fields, were not available, but a representative for the film's Los Angeles-based producer, Danjaq Prods., said "it's a nice-sized role."

Talk of Arterton's casting had been swirling around the blogosphere and in British tabloids since mid-December. Arterton plays a schoolgirl in the comedy "St. Trinian's," which was recently released in Britain.

(China Daily/Agencies January 7, 2008)