UK says gives 'serious consideration' to Iran note

London, Mar 30: Britain is giving ''serious consideration'' to a formal note from the Iranian government about 15 captured British military personnel, a Foreign Office spokeswoman said today.

''Such exchanges are always confidential, so we cannot divulge any details. But we are giving the message serious consideration, and will soon respond formally to the Iranian government,'' the spokeswoman said.

The note was received by the British embassy in Tehran, but the spokeswoman was unable to say when.

Iran's decision to capture and detain the 15 sailors and marines in the Gulf last Friday has sparked a diplomatic crisis with Britain.

London says satellite data prove the crew were seized in Iraqi waters. Tehran responded by showing video of the capture and charts it says show they were in Iranian waters.

Britain has frozen all diplomatic business with Iran apart from discussions over the prisoners. Prime Minister Tony Blair said Britain would not ''end up in negotiation over hostages''.

Reuters