British Muslim groups have written to the Prime Minister calling for "urgent" changes to UK foreign policy.

In an open letter they say British policy is putting civilians at increased risk in the UK and abroad.

The letter, to appear in press adverts, also points to the "debacle" of Iraq and the failure to secure an immediate end to attacks in the Middle East.

It has been signed by three Muslim MPs, three peers and 38 groups, including the Muslim Council of Britain.

'Unfair and unjust'

The letter urges Tony Blair to redouble his efforts to tackle terror and extremism, and change foreign policy to show the UK values the lives of civilians.

MP Sadiq Khan, who signed the letter, said British foreign policy was seen by many as unfair and unjust.

"Whether we like it or not such a sense of injustice plays into the hands of extremists," he said.

"As moderates we will do all we can to fight extremism. We hope the government will join us in this, not just by changing the rules on hand luggage, but by showing itself as an advocate for justice in the world."

Muslim Council of Britain secretary general Dr Mohammed Abdul Bari said civilians in the UK, the Middle East and the rest of the world should "all enjoy protection".

The letter is also signed by MPs Shahid Malik and Mohammed Sarwar, and peers Lord Patel of Blackburn, Lord Ahmed of Rotherham and Baroness Uddin.

Other groups behind the initiative include the Muslim Association of Britain, British Muslim Forum and Muslim Parliament.

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