Home Secretary David Blunkett met representatives of the "Three Faiths Forum" on Wednesday.

The forum was established to promote dialogue between Christians, Jews and Muslims.

"The Three Faiths Forum is to be congratulated on its work to promote dialogue between faiths. Based on the simple premise that dialogue creates understanding and tolerance the Forum has worked tirelessly since 1997 to reduce tension between communities," he said.

The move follows publication of controversial tough laws outlawing religious hatred on Tuesday and the continuing importance of the multi-cultural agenda to the government's "war on terrorism".

"Their work is now even more important. New legislation will outlaw religious hatred but it is the actions of individuals and groups, like the Three Faiths Forum, that help build religious tolerance," said the home secretary.