Iraqi scientists have called for a ban on depleted uranium, a metal substance used in anti-tank shells fired by allied forces during the Gulf War.

The scientists, who were attending an international conference in Baghdad, said the shells had caused radioactive pollution in southern Iraq.

They said this had led to an increase in cancer and other related illnesses.

The United States has rejected the Iraqi claim, describing it as completely unfounded.

A spokesman for the Defence Department said there was no evidence of a link between depleted uranium and cancer.

He said the substance was no more radioactive than lead.