Muslims must learn to fit in, says Pakistan's top envoy in Britain

Pakistan's High Commissioner to the UK has said Muslims should make greater efforts to integrate into British society. While emphasising the major contribution made by Pakistani groups in this country, she warned that an appearance of separatism could aid the cause of extremists.

Speaking to the Yorkshire Post, Dr Maleeha Lodhi said: "You cannot isolate yourself and then expect people to listen to what your grievances are. You can integrate without assimilating, so you are part of British society.

"You should be good British citizens, you should be part of this society. And nobody is asking you to give up your religion, your culture, your traditions, but if you want to have an influence and an impact on this society you must be part of that society."

West Yorkshire was hit by riots in Bradford three years ago and since then a series of reports and initiatives have highlighted problems of segregation between white and Asian communities. Dr Lodhi is planning to visit the area next year.

She also criticised conservative attitudes towards the role of women in some sections of the British Pakistani community, saying they should not be "hidden away" at home.

Dr Lodhi said: "Education is a great opener of minds and hearts, there's no question about that. You are more secure, you are more self confident. I can speak to you in your language and not think that I am losing anything in terms of my own language. I am very sure of my identity."

The Home Secretary, David Blunkett, found himself criticised for pandering to extremists when he urged immigrant communities to embrace Britishness and stressed the importance of learning English.