A senior representative of the Muslim community in Bradford has branded remarks made by Conservative Leader David Cameron, regarding the banning of controversial Islamic group Hizb ut-Tahrir, as uninformed and unhelpful.

The comments were made by Mr Cameron during Prime Minister's Question Time on Wednesday. He challenged Gordon Brown over the government's decision not to proscribe the group, seen as extremist in some circles.

Hizb ut-Tahrir have had a presence in Bradford since the 1990s and two years ago staged a public meeting in the city. The group denies claims it promotes segregation and violence against non-Muslims.

Speaking to the Telegraph & Argus, Ishtiaq Ahmed of the Bradford Council for Mosques questioned the opposition leader's understanding of the situation. He said: "This group is a very insignificant presence in Bradford, operating on the fringes of Muslim organisations. We are not overly concerned about them. In the past there have been incidents of them distributing leaflets but that seems to have dissipated.

"Our policy is to not give too much attention to them. If you start talking about banning an organisation like this you give it the oxygen of publicity.

"What we need to do is make sure local mosques are vigilant and act to prevent any organisation spreading religious hatred and encouraging extremism."

He added it was important for the community to address these issues themselves. He said: "We do not want to make martyrs of these people. I do not think Mr Cameron is aware of the mindset of the Muslim community. His information appears to be very outdated and his comments are not helpful."

Mr Ahmed was also critical of the media, saying: "To Blame Islam and Muslims for the actions of a small minority is wrong. These people are not acting for Islam, they are using it as an excuse.

"The vast majority of Muslims find the actions of these extremists as abhorrent as everyone else."

Aasked about the proscription of Hizb ut-Tahrir a Home Office spokesman said it was not policy to discuss the case of an organisation which was under consideration for Proscription. The T&A understands this is the case with this group.