TONY Blair has indicated that European integration will be strengthened in response to terrorism. Britain will support a new European search-and-arrest warrant, as well as the abolition of formal extradition procedures between EU member states.

But there can be no defence against those who hate so much that they are prepared to blow themselves up in order to cause the maximum hurt to others.

The world wants the fanatics responsible for the atrocities to be punished, but it wants a 'proportionate' response, however difficult that may be, not a crusade by the (Christian) West against the (Islamic) East.

If military action kills and maims many more innocent people, it will sponsor the recruitment of hundreds more suicide bombers. A spiral of violence could threaten us all.

Europe must give America its support, but as close friends, we must also caution that military might directed against an uncertain enemy may achieve the opposite of what is intended. Tackling the causes of the hatred directed towards us deserves equal attention.

CHRIS DAVIES, Liberal Democrat MEP for the North West.