By IANS,
Chandigarh : Britain Tuesday “strongly condemned” all terror attacks, as well as the Pune bombing, but said its travel advisory in the aftermath of the blast would not have an adverse effect on tourist flow to India, a “very popular destination” for Britons.
Britain’s Business, Innovation and Skills Minister Pat McFadden told reporters here: “Whatever the nationality of those killed in the Pune blast, we express our deep sympathy with their families. Our condolences are with them.”
“I cannot comment on which country or group is responsible for this attack (Pune bombing). It is a matter of concern for the Indian authorities. They should make sure to track down the people behind this,” he said on the sidelines of an event.
Condemning terror attacks, McFadden said: “It doesn’t matter what is the nature of the attack, it could be an attack on a Mumbai hotel, the Pune blast or terror attacks that struck UK a few years back, we strongly condemn them. However, we have to work together and it is a common struggle (against terrorism) for us.”
McFadden was here Tuesday to attend a panel discussion on UK-India partnerships in education.
Talking about the advisory issued by Britain for its citizens in India after the Pune blast, McFadden said: “The UK government is always very concerned about the welfare of its citizens, therefore they issued this advisory.
“But despite all these things, India is still a very popular destination among British people and there will be no adverse effect on the flow of tourists.”
The minister expressed ignorance about the detention of two British nationals who were staying at the Radisson hotel near the Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) in New Delhi, Monday.
“I am not aware of any such incident so I cannot comment on this,” said McFadden.
Two Britons – Stephen Hampston and Steven Martin – were detained by the Intelligence Bureau (IB) and Delhi Police Monday. They were in possession of some high tech gadgets, maps and binoculars.
McFadden also attended a Punjabi wedding of his NRI friend’s son in Zirakpur town in Punjab, around 15 km from here, Monday night.