EAST Lancashire computer mogul Tahir Mohsan last night said the BNP could be stopped by ensuring white people received the same support as the Asian community.

The Blackburn-born managing director of Simonstone-based Time Computer Group, who is worth £70 million, was addressing 850 people at the annual dinner of the Asian Business Federation.

Mr Mohsan, chairman of the ABF, said he had never experienced racism in 32 years in Britain and told how well integrated different communities were, compared with Dubai, where he emigrated to six weeks ago.

He added: "The ABF is not a political organisation but one political issue which is beginning to touch the ABF is that of the BNP and their alleged successes in Blackburn and Burnley.

"The BNP is not a vote for racism. The BNP is a vote of disillusionment which certain sections of the community feel. It is important the ABF starts to integrate with disillusioned people in East Lancashire.

"It is important mainstream organisations try to help a disillusioned community."

He said the white community did not get the "same level of support" as the Asian community and urged the business community to campaign to resolve this issue and "take away the stigma of the BNP in East Lancashire".

The ABF is the largest Asian business federation in Britain and the event, at King George's Hall, Blackburn, was attended by 600 businesses,

Guest speakers were Sir Anwar Pervez OBE, chairman of the Bestway Group, and Abdul Bhanji from the Confederation of British Industry.

They related their experience of working in business and passed on tips to the audience.

The ABF has 502 member businesses which are given support and advice.

Mr Mohsan added: "This prestigious event has become an important date for businesses, it creates a vibrant atmosphere where businesses can celebrate their success."