Iranian Diplomats Expelled From UK

The UK has expelled two Iranian diplomats after Iran forced two British envoys to leave.

Gordon Brown told MPs: "Iran yesterday took the unjustified step of expelling two British diplomats over allegations which are absolutely without foundation.

"In response to that action, we informed the Iranian ambassador today that we would expel two Iranian diplomats from their embassy in London.

"I am disappointed that Iran has placed us in this position," the Prime Minister said.

President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad told the United States and Britain on Sunday to stop interfering in Iran's internal affairs after the disputed June 12 presidential election, which led to days of protests in which about 17 people have been killed.

Conservative leader David Cameron said the expulsion of the British diplomats was "clearly not acceptable" and backed the retaliatory measure.

The Iranian government claims the expelled Brits were "engaging in activities incompatible with their diplomatic status".

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office described the claim as "baseless" and said that action was "unjustifiable".

A spokeswoman said: "We think the Government of Iran is seeking to blame the UK and other outsiders for what is an Iranian reaction to an Iranian issue.

"This has a potential impact on our staff safety and is unacceptable. We have taken the decision to reciprocate."