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It was one of the earlier questions Vicki Treadell, deputy high commissioner, British Deputy High Commission, Mumbai, was asked. Did she feel British citizens had been in particular danger during the latest terrorist attack to have devastated Mumbai? 

"We have no specific, confirmed information that this was the case, but from whatever has happened, it is clear the terrorists were looking for Westerners. They targeted places that were popular with the Westerners.

Treadell was at the Oberoi Hotel to lend support to the British citizens there. "Considering the circumstances, those of our citizens who have come out of the hotel are in good spirits and relatively good health.""

 She refused to put any number as far as the British citizens trapped in the Oberoi, Trident and Taj hotels are concerned.

Injured British citizens have been admitted to four hospitals in the city; the condition of two, she says, is serious. On stand-by are trauma specialists and two members of the British Red Cross.

 Treadell says the consulate has been in touch with the hostages' families. "So far, none of them have expressed a desire to come to Mumbai, but if they want to do so, we will assist them in every possible way."

 Asked about the advisory issued to British citizens against travel in India, she said, "We have advised our citizens not to visit Mumbai under the circumstances unless it is extremely urgent or unavoidable. We have not issued any advisory against travel in India."