PENDLE MP Gordon Prentice has urged the Government to ensure that more UN observers are posted along the disputed "line of control" between the Pakistani- and Indian- administered portions of Kashmir.

Currently there are 40 UN observers along the 400-mile border.

Mr Prentice, who has many Kashmiri constituents, said in the Commons: "I want to see the line of control absolutely flooded with UN observers."

Foreign Office Minister Mike O'Brien said that without the consent of both the Indians and Pakistanis, such observers - possibly including British troops - could face the threat of being shot at.

Mr Prentice said: "What is the problem with India? It wants to see insurgency stopped.

"It must be in that country's interests to allow UN observers on their side of the line of control.

"We are always told that nothing can move forward without the agreement of India and Pakistan.

"Surely the presence of the UN as the eyes and ears of the international community can help towards preserving the peace in this flashpoint region."