Brit official 'sorry' for Rushie flap

LONDON, June 21 (UPI) -- Britain's foreign secretary Wednesday expressed sorrow over any offense caused to Muslims by the knighting of "The Satanic Verses" writer Salman Rushdie.

But Foreign Secretary Margaret Beckett said people should understand the honor was for Rushdie's entire literary career, not just one book, The Telegraph reported. She said Rushdie was just one of many Muslims who have been recognized by the British honors system, a point that "may not be realized by many of those who have been vocal in their opposition."

The bestowing of knighthood upon the controversial author has triggered a flood of verbal venom from Islamic nations, including Malaysia where demonstrators chanted "go to hell, Britain." Iraq's foreign minister has condemned Britain's issuing of the honor, saying it could be used as an excuse to cause problems around the world, the British newspaper reported.

But British Home Secretary John Reid also said the award was the right thing to do, saying it symbolizes the protection of people's rights to express their opinions, which is "of overriding value to our society."