Former British prime minister Mrs Margaret Thatcher has criticised Muslim leaders in Britain over their response to the terror attacks in America.
She told the TimesMuslim leaders had not spoken out strongly enough about the September 11th atrocities.
"The people who brought down those towers were Muslims and Muslims must stand up and say that is not the way of Islam," she told the paper.
"Passengers on those planes were told that they were going to die and there were children on board. They must say that is disgraceful. I have not heard enough condemnation from Muslim priests".
Although it is more than a decade since Mrs Thatcher left office, her international stature ensures that her views still attract attention around the world.
Conservative Central Office refused to comment on Mrs Thatcher's remarks.
Muslim leader Dr Ghayasuddin Siddiqui said: "I am very sad and surprised that she has said this sort of thing. Coming from a person like Baroness Thatcher, it is very hurtful.
"People need to know that out of over 6,000 people who died in this terrible incident, over 1,500 of them were Muslims".
PA
