Blair says bombing must continue through Ramadan

British Prime Minister Tony Blair has refused to bow to pressure for a pause in the Afghanistan bombing campaign.

At a meeting in Downing Street he told the President of Pakistan, Pervez Musharraf the military campaign must continue until all objectives were met.

The Pakistani president made it clear he would like to see an end to the bombing before the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, though he stressed that his country would remain part of the international coalition against terrorism.

However, Mr Blair said although he was aware of the sensitivities of Ramadan: "The campaign must continue ultimately until the objectives are secured."

Both Britain and the US have signalled clearly their intention to continue military action throughout the Muslim holy month, which begins on November 17.