David Blunkett was backed by some senior politicians in Bradford today after he attacked rioters for "whining" about their long jail sentences.

In an outspoken speech to business leaders, the Home Secretary also described the rioters as "maniacs" and condemned "bleeding heart liberals" who had criticised recent crime initiatives.

Speaking of the effects of the riots, Mr Blunkett praised the police and judiciary.

"The police have done a really good job in following this through and at last the courts are handing out sentences that are a genuine reprisal but also a message to the community," Mr Blunkett said.

But he added: "For every sentence, for every tough new law, for every sensible measure, there's some bleeding heart liberals who are there wanting to get them off, get them out and reduce their sentence.

"These maniacs actually burned down their own businesses, their own job opportunities. They discouraged investment in their areas."

Today deputy Council leader Councillor Simon Cooke (Con, Bingley Rural) said: "The damage done was indefensible. It is an appalling situation where we get riots and all the indications are that it has been properly dealt with and the sentences are right.

"My concern isn't with the length of sentence but that when they come out of prison they will become useful citizens."

Chris Turton, chairman of the West Yorkshire Police Federation, which represents rank-and-file officers, said: "I think the sentences reflect the severity of the crimes committed and while I sympathise with the families, I have no sympathy for the perpetrators.

"In Manningham there was almost 12 hours of the most horrendous violence witnessed against police officers for 20 years and I think the sentences reflect this."

And Councillor John Ruding, a Bradford member of the West Yorkshire Police Authority, said: "I think that the people have been whinging about these sentences should reflect on the massive damage these people have done..

"I fully support the sentences and Mr Blunkett's comments on them. I feel the vast majority of Bradford's communities support this as well."

But Shanaz Lal, spokesman for the Fair Justice For All group, said she was horrified at Mr Blunkett's comments.

She said: "We are all insulted that he has called our brothers and sons maniacs. He has insulted our whole community.

"His comments will not weaken our resolve. We are supported by hundreds and have more than a thousand signatures on a petition calling for a public inquiry. People phone us with support every day from all over the country, not just Asian people.

"Mr Blunkett has not looked into what happened. How can he say these sentences are correct when all some of them have done is throw one or two stones?"

So far 113 people have been convicted for their parts in the riots with the longest sentence being eight-and-a-half years.

During the disorder, 326 police officers were injured and £10 million pounds damage was caused. A thousand extra police officers had to be drafted in to deal with the violence.