I have read this debate with great interest. I don't pretend to know very much about Middle Eastern conflicts, however, I know that they are very real and obviously stir huge emotions amongst us all.

As an English woman, a mother of a son the same age as many of these sailors, I just want these young men brought home to their families safely. They are our young men and regardless of what people may feel about Bush/Blair, these men enlisted in the British military services because they felt it the right thing to do and we should be praying for their safe return because they are human beings, with families and have the same hopes and dreams for their lives that anyone would have.

Guest 282RA, how you can say you don't mind if these young men "stay in Iran and rot" is beyond me and I'm sure beyond most civilised, ordinary human beings. I've read your postings, you make very good points and yes, Brits are absolutely not blameless but I really think you should kerb some of your tasteless view points - and perhaps your language?