Muslim leaders in Birmingham have urged the Government and the public to exercise caution before pointing the finger of blame for the bombings at the Muslim community.

Dr Mohammed Naseem, chairman of Birmingham Central Mosque, said linking so-called Islamic groups with the attack could seriously harm community relations.

"The feeling at the moment is shock," he said. "We wholeheartedly condemn this horrendous atrocity. Our hearts and minds go out to those innocent people who were killed or injured in the attacks."

But, he said, bandying about words like 'Islamic extremists' should be discouraged and could cause unnecessary harm.

"Pointing the finger of suspicion against a particular community, with the best will in the world, destroys all the community harmony we have built up," he said.

"We offer the Government all our support for the apprehension of the culprits."