BBC News Online: UK Politics

Osama Bin Laden's sister is in UK

Bin Laden's sister is living in the UK

The Saudi millionaire is one suspect behind this week's US terror attacks that are believed to have left thousands dead.

The MP also highlighted the activities of some radical Muslim clerics whom he said were fundraising for terrorism in the UK.

Mr Bellingham said: "Are you aware that there are still a number of extremist Middle East organisations in London fundraising and peddling evil?

"For example like Sheikh Abu Hamza based at Finsbury Park Mosque?

"And also are you aware that Bin Laden's sister is living in this country?"

Mr Straw replied: "Of course I am aware of the individual of whom you spoke, one could hardly fail to be aware of him."

But Mr Straw added firmly: "He does not speak for the Islamic faith or the Islamic community."

Sources

Following the close of the emergency Commons debate Whitehall sources have since confirmed that Bin Laden's sister is in the UK, legitimately, although security services are keeping a close watch on her.

Her brother is one of the CIA's most wanted men.

The millionaire from Saudi Arabia is currently believed to be living in Afghanistan as a guest of the Taliban government.

He and his associates were already being sought before Tuesday's events by the US on charges of international terrorism.

Their investigations include the 1998 bombing of American embassies in Africa and last year's attack on the USS Cole in Yemen.