The British company accused of sending arms to Sierra Leone in breach of UN guidelines has released a letter sent to the British Foreign Secretary, Robin Cook, claiming that senior government officials knew and approved of its actions.

The company, Sandline International, says the letter was sent two weeks ago, before Mr Cook denied government involvement and announced an independent inquiry.

The letter names Foreign Office and senior British army officers, whom it says were fully briefed.

It also claims that United States officials also backed the sale, and that the British ambassador had also been involved.

From the newsroom of the BBC World Service
 

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