Authorities in London have barred re-entry into Britain for Islamic fundamentalist cleric Omar Bakri, who is being investigated on terrorism-related charges.
Home Secretary Charles Clarke, issuing the order today-Friday, said Mr. Bakri's presence "is not conducive to the public good."
The cleric left England for what he said was a visit to Lebanon last week, shortly after he sparked public outrage by saying he would refuse to inform police if he knew any Muslims were planning bomb attacks in Britain.
As part of Britain's efforts to fight terrorism following last month's London bomb attacks, Prime Minister Tony Blair said his government will deport any foreigners who advocate violence.
In another development, authorities in Amman say they want Britain to send home Abu Qatada, a Muslim cleric who is wanted on terrorism charges in Jordan. British police say the man is a top recruiter for the al-Qaida terror network.
Abu Qatada, who has been tried and convicted in absentia in Jordan for terrorist offenses, is among 10 people detained Thursday in Britain because they are considered a threat to national security. He was facing deportation even before Jordan asked for his extradition.
Information for this report is provided by AP, AFP and Reuters.
