He said that military action had only been launched after talks and "final chances until the final moment".

During the speech in Whitehall at the start of his state visit to Britain Mr Bush also made clear that the war against terrorism will continue.

His speech was made on the day that anti-war protests are expected throughout London.

Some 14,000 police officers have been brought in to protect Mr Bush during his visit.

Despite this, the Mirror newspaper claims a reporter has been working in Buckingham Palace and was even asked to serve the president his breakfast.

The reporter says he's been working there for the last two months and that he fooled them into giving him a job.