LONDON, April 25, 2007 (WAFA) - The number of British MPs who signed Early Day Motion 1181 calling for the immediate and unconditional safe release of Alan Johnston, the BBC journalist kidnapped in Gaza over a month ago, has now reached 100.

The motion stated "That this House expresses its deep concern at the disappearance of the BBC correspondent in Gaza, Alan Johnston, applauds the tenacity and professionalism of Mr Johnston's regular reports from Gaza over the past three years highlighting both political developments in the area and the humanitarian crisis facing the Palestinian people."

It believes that the abduction is illegal and unacceptable and that it undermines the efforts of all those working for justice for the Palestinians both in the Middle East and internationally.

The Motion welcomed the expressions of support for Mr Johnston by Palestinian journalists and the efforts of the Palestinian Authority, Palestinian political parties and non-governmental organisations, and all those in the international community who are working for his release, calling for Mr Johnston's immediate and unconditional safe return to his colleagues, friends and family.

The motion was tabled following a meeting between the BBC and members of the Britain-Palestine All Party Parliamentary Group last month to offer support to the BBC's efforts to secure his release.

Richard Burden MP, Chair of the Britain-Palestine All Party Group has also raised Alan Johnston's abduction at a recent meeting of the United Nations.

A.D (23.30P) (20.30GMT)