UK seeks aid mechanism for Libya rebels

William Hague, the British foreign secretary, called for a regional financial mechanism to support Libyan rebels in their campaign against Muammar Gaddafi.

"I hope we can agree to set up a temporary financial mechanism in the region for the benefit of the Interim National Council-controlled areas of Libya," he said, referring to the rebels' shadow government.

Hague said Britain also hoped the meeting would agree "how best to plan the stabilisation" of Libya.

"I hope we will agree to endorse the principles set out by the Interim National Council for a political process leading to a democratic Libya," he said.

"We should also move forward quickly to ensure that nations wishing to support the Interim National Council in meeting its public sector tasks do so in a transparent manner," Hague added.