The Dalai Lama has avoided politics on the first day of a high-profile visit to the UK.

The first engagement for Tibet's spiritual leader on his 11-day stay was a ceremony at London Metropolitan University where he received an honorary doctorate in philosophy.

During a 30-minute address he was critical of China's "one-sided" teaching system, but made no mention of Beijing's human rights record nor his forthcoming meeting with Prime Minister Gordon Brown.

Instead of the political setting called for by many politicians and Tibet campaigners, Mr Brown will meet the Dalai Lama at Lambeth Palace, home of the Archbishop of Canterbury, on Friday.

To some the arrangement had been seen as a snub to the Dalai Lama, treating him as a spiritual leader at the expense of his political role as leader of the Tibetan people.

Former Lib Dem leader Sir Menzies Campbell said: "Treating the Dalai Lama as only a religious leader simply ignores the reality. There is no reason why he should not be received at Number 10."

He added: "Many people will conclude that the Prime Minister is trying to have it both ways, to see him and not offend the Chinese government."

Speaking after the ceremony, Brian Roper, vice-chancellor and chief executive of London Metropolitan University, spoke of his pride at welcoming the religious leader to Britain.

He said: "I'm delighted we got to see him before Gordon Brown."

Asked if the Dalai Lama had mentioned his forthcoming meeting with the Premier during private discussions, Mr Roper said no but added: "I think I saw a twinkle in his eye."

The Dalai Lama is also set to meet Prince Charles and give five days of teachings from Saturday at Nottingham Arena.

Scotland Yard said "appropriate" policing would be in place and that it was aware of at least two planned protests when the Dalai Lama is due to visit Parliament on Thursday.

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