London: Hindu Forum of Britain, an umbrella body with a broad-based membership of Hindu organisations from different regions and cultural backgrounds in the UK, has been launched in the House of Commons, with speakers describing it as a milestone event for the development of 700,000 British Hindus.

Outlining the salient features of the Forum, launched last evening, its General Secretary Ramesh Kallidai said: "At the core of the Forum's activities is a strong belief in the richness and diversity of the Hindu culture, its value system that encompasses respect for all beings and faiths, and a cultural heritage that facilitates community co-existence."

He said 130 different Hindu organisations have joined the Forum.

The launch function held at the Boothroyrd Room of the Portcullis House was attended by MPs from all three major political parties.

It was co-hosted by Lord Navnit Dholakia, Chair of the Liberal Democratic Party, Stephen Pound MP, Chair of the Labour Friends of India and Peter Luff MP, Chair of the Conservative Parliamentary Friends of India.

Baroness Amos lit a lamp to inaugurate the Forum amid chanting of Sanskrit shlokas.

Speaking on the occasion Ishwer Taylor, President of the Forum, said it was the most significant milestone for Hindus in Britain in the 21st century.

"We have excelled in education, employment, business and professions and we will continue to excel in our friendly relations with other communities," he said and hoped the Forum would represent the voice of Hindus in the UK.