Radical Islamist preacher Anjem Choudary has said he was "shocked" by the murder of a soldier in Woolwich, but has refused to condemn the attack.
Drummer Lee Rigby was killed in broad daylight on Wednesday by two men, who were subsequently shot by police. The suspects, now known to be Michael Adebolajo and Michael Adebowale, were known to security services.
Mr Choudary told the BBC's Newsnight programme that he encountered Adebolajo at a number of Islamist demonstrations.
"When I saw what took place I was shocked... but what he said in the clip, I think not many Muslims can disagree with," he added.
Mr Choudary was participating in a Newsnight discussion on the attack with Shams Adduha Muhammad, imam and director of Ebrahim College, and Julie Siddiqui, executive director of the Islamic Society of Britain. Newsnight's presenter Kirsty Wark chaired the discussion.
Video of Woolwich suspect in 2007
Video of Woolwich attacker at protest in 2007 with Salafi Preacher Anjem Choudary
Footage of one of the alleged Woolwich attackers, Michael Adebolajo, taking part in an Salafi demonstration in 2007, has emerged.
The BBC's Sophie Raworth reports.
SOURCE | http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-22647714
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