Anthrax: Suspicion falls on state-sponsored source

Scientists say the process of making high-grade anthrax similar to that used in the attacks on America requires expert knowledge and specialist equipment.

So-called "weapons grade" anthrax has only been produced in a few countries - including Russia, the US and Iraq - after decades of research and millions of pounds of investment.

US investigators claim the cost and expertise needed to produce anthrax similar to that which has killed one man and infected five others points the finger at state-sponsored terrorism.

Professor Alistair Hay, a chemical and biological warfare specialist at Leeds University, said it would take years of specialist training to be able to cultivate such anthrax.

"To undertake something like this you would need many years of expertise.

"With the information that is emerging you are looking at someone with expertise in chemical and biological training."

He said it was unlikely an individual could make "weapons grade" anthrax because the level of expertise required was so high.

Countries successful in producing it include Syria, Iran, Iraq, the US, Russia, Israel, Egypt, China, India, North and South Korea.

Former UN weapons inspector Richard Butler, who led the UN team inspecting Saddam Hussein's weapons programme, said the Iraqis had been trying to produce "high-grade" anthrax like that used in the attacks.

Other experts say the likely source could be Russia where there are dozens of redundant scientists who worked on a secret germ warfare programme set up in the 1970s.