PM set for talks with Dalai Lama

At Prime Minister's Questions, Mr Brown issued a fresh call for dialogue to end the current violence in Tibet.

"I think it is important that we all facilitate discussions but the most important thing at the moment is to bring about an end to the violence, reconciliation, and to see legitimate talks taking place between those people in China," he said.

Mr Brown said he has spoken to China's prime minister Wen Jiabao who told him that he was prepared to enter into dialogue with the Dalai Lama.

The talks were subject to assurances, which the exiled Tibetan spiritual leader has already given, that he is not calling for the complete independence of Tibet and that he renounces violence.

The announcement follows the suppression by the Chinese authorities of demonstrations across Tibet protesting against Chinese rule amid claims that dozens have died in the violence.

Mr Brown has previously appeared reluctant to say whether he would meet the Dalai Lama - who is due to visit Britain in May - apparently due to concerns that it would antagonise the Chinese.

His decision to go ahead with a meeting was welcomed by Tory leader David Cameron. "It is a difficult decision but it wouldn't have been made any better by delaying it and I congratulate him for doing the right thing," he said.

The meeting will ensure that the spotlight remains on Tibet at a time when the Chinese authorities are desperate to avoid any disturbances which could disrupt the Beijing Olympics this summer.

Campaigners for an independent Tibet welcomed Mr Brown's decision to have talks with the Dalai Lama. But they also called on the Prime Minister to put pressure on China to end "the massive violation of human rights" in their homeland.