Cameron condemns lack of Muslim integration in Britain

He claimed the UK was facing a growing problem of "cultural separatism" where the next generation of British Muslims were further away from mainstream society than the previous generation.

In an attempt to remedy the problem the Tory leader has said advocated lessons on "being British" and said all immigrants should speak English.

Warning that the country had failed to build a sense of common citizenship Mr Cameron said Britain should follow the example of the US, which had succeeded in achieving a real sense of "what it means to be an American".

He called for history to be taught "properly" in schools in a way that celebrated Britain's positive achievements at home and abroad.

His comments echoed recent remarks and concerns raised by senior Labour figures.

Leader of the Commons Jack Straw has also pointed to the US example, while a pamphlet today by Communities Secretary Ruth Kelly and Immigration Minister Liam Byrne called for a national "Britain" day to strengthen citizenship.

Mr Cameron, addressing the Islam And Muslims In The World Today conference in London, said Britain was facing a growing problem of "cultural separatism".

He said that Britain had failed to create a sense of national identity embraced by all, regardless of their faith or ethnic origins, in the way that America had.

"Of course America is not perfect. But it does succeed in creating, to an extent far more evident that we have achieved here, a real sense of common identity - about what it means to be an American," he said.

"It is this strong sense of inclusive identity that has helped make so many people feel part of American society.

"In Britain, we have to be honest: we have failed to do the same. We have not opened up our sense of citizenship to all those that have come to live here."

Mr Cameron said that history lessons should teach children about concepts such as the rule of law, free speech, freedom of the individual and parliamentary democracy.

"This does not mean we have to gloss over all the things we are not entirely proud of, but we should at least celebrate the many positive things Britain has achieved both at home and abroad," he said.

"After all, you do not earn respect by constantly denigrating and repudiating your own culture."

At the same time, ensuring that all immigrants can speak English would help to foster a shared sense of identity, he said.

"Ultimately, it is an emotional connection that binds a country together. It is by contact that we overcome our differences - and realise that though our origins and our cultures may vary, we all share common values," he said.

"The most basic contact comes from talking to each other: and if people cannot speak the English this becomes near impossible."