Christian Solidarity Worldwide has welcomed the UK Government's support for a UN investigation into crimes against humanity in Burma.

British ambassador to the UN, Mark Lyell, yesterday backed the recommendation by the UN's Special Rapporteur to Burma earlier in the month for a commission of inquiry to be set up.

He said the UK Government would support the referral of a case to the International Criminal Court (ICC).

"Because Burma is not a state party to the ICC it would require the Security Council to make a reference, and I don't think the Security Council is sufficiently unanimous in its view to allow such a reference to happen. We of course would support such a reference," said Mr Lyell.

CSW has pressed for a commission of inquiry for several years and last week reported fresh evidence of serious human rights abuses.

CSW's East Asia Team Leader Benedict Rogers said: "We are delighted that the United Kingdom is showing leadership on this issue, and has pledged strong support for the Special Rapporteur's recommendations.

"It is vital that in the run-up to the regime's fake elections, its crimes against humanity and the prevailing culture of impunity in Burma are addressed by the United Nations, and action is taken to end the regime's campaign of rape, forced labour, torture, destruction, killing and terror."