Queen speaks out over terror attacks

The Queen said the war was not a conflict between the West and Islam

The Queen has spoken publicly for the first time about the war on Afghanistan, stressing the need for people of all faiths to make a stand against terrorism.

She also expressed her hopes for peace in the Middle East during a banquet at Windsor Castle held for Jordan's King Abdullah who is on a state visit to the UK.

After admitting the US terror attacks had shocked the country, she went on to praise King Abdullah for trying to persuade others the US-led war on terrorism was not a conflict between Islam and the West.

In the words of Edmund Burke, the only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing

Queen Elizabeth II

In a direct reference to the US war on terrorism, the Queen said: "Following the tragic events of 11 September all of us, whatever our religion or background, have an added responsibility to ensure that those who are intent on stirring up hatred, fear and prejudice in this country do not succeed.

"In the words of Edmund Burke, the only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing."

The Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh hosted the formal dinner on Tuesday evening in honour of the state visit by King Abdullah and his wife Queen Rania.

She said: "Your majesty's help in persuading others that this is not a conflict between Islam and the West, but rather between decent people of all faiths and terrorism, has been greatly appreciated here."

Middle East peace

Her address moved on to cover the Middle East conflict.

She said she hoped the whole of the Middle East could enjoy the security and stability of peace.

The king will promote Jordanian economic and commercial interests

She said: "I have followed with keen concern, developments in the peace process and deeply regret the violence and loss of life of the past year."

King Abdullah replied by saying it was "imperative" to bring a "just, comprehensive and lasting peace" to the region.

He said: "My goal is a fair and balanced resolution. Justice for the Palestinian people and security for Israel."

During his three-day state visit, King Abdullah, who is half British, will promote Jordanian economic and commercial interests in Britain.

Investment opportunities

King Abdullah will visit Cambridge on Wednesday for meetings with business representatives to discuss investment opportunities in Jordan.

On Thursday, he will address members of both Houses of Parliament at Westminster before having lunch with Prime Minister Tony Blair at 10 Downing Street.

King Abdullah will also meet Defence Secretary Geoff Hoon and Britain's Chief of Defence Staff Admiral Sir Michael Boyce.

His visit had been planned for last year but was cancelled due to tensions in the Middle East.

You can join King Abdullah for a special web, radio and television edition of Talking Point on Friday 9 November. Send us your questions for him now and include your phone number if you want to put them directly to him.