NORTH-west MEP Sajjad Karim has criticised the government for failing to listen to Britain's Muslim community.
Liberal Democrat Euro MP Mr Karim singled out Home Secretary Dr John Reid MP for his handling of the recent terror arrests following the alleged plot to bring down Trans-Atlantic flights.
Mr Karim said Mr Reid's description of the predominantly Muslim suspects as "the main players" jeopardised their chances of a fair trial.
He went on to say: "Ironically the government's engagement with the Muslim community has not extended beyond its own, and has excluded Muslims not in the Labour camp from its consultation exercises.
"Until this government demonstrates a genuine commitment to working with and listening to the Muslim community's concerns, they will leave themselves open to this kind of criticism."
Mr Karim also spoke of the unrest in the Middle East, criticising Prime Minister Tony Blair for ignoring public opinion and following the lead of US ministers.
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