Home secretary Jacqui Smith told internet service providers (ISPs) today to play their part in stemming the increase in terrorism.

With the aim of stopping websites that promote extremism, Ms Smith met with ISPs in order to set up a collaboration similar to the one the government holds with the communications industry regarding paedophiles.

The minister's speech came at the International Centre for Study of Radicalisation and Political Violence at King's College, London.

"It is difficult but that does not mean we should not try [to address the situation]," Miss Smith said.

"Stopping people becoming or supporting terrorists is the major long-term challenge we face."

She added that extremists need to be shown that the government is tackling terrorism online, as well as in other ways.

In an interview with the Sunday Telegraph at the start of 2008, Ms Smith said that her job is about providing security for the Uk's communities, so that they can "get on with their lives".