Yet more talk of a lawsuit....

First, it's the Canadian Arab Federation suing the Federal Government, and then it's George Galloway threatening to sue Bernie Farber....now, here's one from the UK....

The deputy leader of Britain's leading Muslim group is suing the Government for defamation in an extremism row which could cost the taxpayer hundreds of thousands of pounds.

Dr Daud Abdullah, deputy secretary-general of the Muslim Council of Britain, has sent a solicitor's letter to Communities Secretary Hazel Blears demanding a 'substantial' payout or he will drag the Government to court.

Any legal costs would be met from public funds - along with any payout to Dr Abdullah, who is also a member of the once Government-backed Mosques and Imams National Advisory Board.

The row centres on a controversial document relating to the recent conflict in Gaza, known as the 'Istanbul declaration', which was signed by Dr Abdullah.

Mrs Blears interpreted it as allegedly advocating attacks on the Royal Navy if it tried to stop arms intended for Hamas being smuggled into Gaza.

She suspended ties with the MCB and is understood to have suggested Dr Abdullah resign.

The MCB, which has received substantial Whitehall grants, refused to condemn its deputy secretary-general and accused Mrs Blears of 'high-handed and condescending action'

The minister hit back in a letter to the Guardian, which is understood to form the basis of Dr Abdullah's claim.

Her letter said: 'Government would be shirking its duty if it fails to investigate any potential threat. We must take this extremely seriously.'

Mrs Blears's office was last night standing firm, making the prospect of a hugely damaging court case a strong possibility.

It also leaves relations between the Government and the MCB --the umbrella for hundreds of disparate groups and once considered the Muslim organisation closest to Labour - in tatters.