People from various religions and backgrounds attended a national anti-war conference in Blackburn.

The conference entitled 'Terrorism - A challenge for the Muslim World and JUSTICE -A challenge for the West' was held at Jan's Conference Centre and attracted more than a thousand people.

Speakers from all over the UK including religious leaders and politician's aimed to explore the role of Muslim and Western nations in their pursuit of justice and peace. However, the ongoing Iraq crisis quickly took over proceedings with speakers calling for the government not to get sucked into a war alongside the United States.

The event was organised by the the UK Peace Mission, Stop the War Coalition in partnership with Indian Muslims Forum UK, the Friends of Pakistan Forum and QAAF. Speakers on the day included, Lord Nazir Ahmed of Rotherham, Iqbal Sacranie, Pervaiz Awan and Jes Edward (Stop the War Coalition), Dr Shakoor MBE, Phil Young and Rev Canon Jude Harrison of St Alban's RC Church, Blackburn.

Speaking at the event, Iqbal Sacranie said, "This war will be a tragedy that none of us want to see happen and it would vibrate in different parts of the world. On issues such as these people of all faiths are united. Peace will only come about if there is justice. The message we have relayed to the government is that we will not support this war full stop....Muslim blood is not cheap."

Cllr David Foster said, "I will truly hang my head in shame if Tony Blair takes this country into this war."

Yusuf Bhailok added, "If Britain had not played a role in supporting the US I don't think we would be in this position. This country has been sold out."