US President George W Bush has praised Gordon Brown for being "tough on terrorism".

It comes as more than 200 extra British military personnel are being sent to Afghanistan.

Mr Bush said he had been "tested" by the Heathrow plane plot soon after entering Number 10 and had responded to the challenge.

"The first thing about Gordon Brown, he is tough on terrorism, and I appreciate it," said Mr Bush.

"So should the British people. You have been strong on Afghanistan and Iraq and I appreciate that. But more importantly, the people of Afghanistan and Iraq appreciate it."

Mr Bush admitted that the situation in Afghanistan was "tough work".

But he added: "I believe it's necessary work in the interests of peace and security. The march to democracy is never smooth."

Mr Bush praised the Prime Minister for leaving more troops in Iraq than initially anticipated and insisted that both nations were taking troop decisions based on conditions on the ground.

He also welcomed Mr Brown's "clear and strong" statement on Iran.

Mr Bush is spending two days in the UK renewing acquaintances and holding talks with Mr Brown and former premier Tony Blair after spending last week meeting leaders in France, Germany and Italy.

After their talks, Mr Bush and Mr Brown flew to Belfast where they met Northern Ireland's leaders, bringing to a close the final leg of the President's farewell tour of Europe.

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