I know this is a difficult time, a tense time, for people up and down the country. There are suggestions that there is an international element to the attempted bombings in London and Glasgow. Inevitably, many are speculating about Al-Qaida involvement.

The truth is that it's too early to tell in this case.

But I acknowledge that those in our Muslim communities can feel like they are under the spotlight. I appreciate that can be difficult and I'd like to pay tribute to the way that the UK's communities have responded so far -- with calm, courage and strength.

Everyone across communities has a responsibility to reject violent extremism and show leadership on this issue.

Terrorists seek to sow mistrust among Britain's different communities. They want to undermine the tolerance that is one of our country's great strengths. But we will show them we stand united in our values and in our determination.

In Government, I want to build on my experience, and the important work of my predecessor Ruth Kelly, to promote greater understanding and speak up for the values that we all share. Part of this means ensuring that every single person -- no matter what their background -- has the opportunity to get on in life, and I will work with colleagues across Government to break down the barriers that still hold too many people back.

But I see my role more as looking out, than looking in. When I was a Home Office Minister I went to visit many diverse communities and I want to do more of that in my new role - listening to communities, learning from communities. Getting opinions from all traditions and backgrounds. It's also important for me to talk with those -- like women, and young people -- who sometimes feel their voice has not been heard.

We won't always see eye to agree eye. That's quite natural. But open and honest debate is always the way forward. Take foreign policy. Two years ago when I went round the country I felt there was a lot of anger about foreign policy. I fully respect people's right to protest. But it's important to recognise the £5bn of aid that the UK has given the Muslim world in five years, or the support that this country's government has given at critical times in Bosnia or Indonesia -- or Pakistan following the devastating earthquake in 2005. If we don't put forward those facts then we create a vacuum where violent extremists can peddle their distorted and vicious arguments. And while in the short term a strong security response is an essential part of stopping violent extremism, in the long term winning the argument -- and making the case for peace, tolerance and respect for all -- is just as crucial.

No-one should be naïve about the scale of the challenge. But I am optimistic. I am looking forward to having the debate with you about the kind of society we want to be. One that is enriched by its diversity. But united by common ideals. And I hope that by working in partnership we can make all our communities stronger and safer for years to come.

Hazel Blears, MP, is Britain's Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government