A man who spent two weeks as a human shield in Iraq today rejected criticism that the peace activists were being used by Saddam Hussein.

Adam Hasan Jamal, 57, was based at the Karada electricity plant during his stay in the capital Baghdad.

Mr Jamal, of Southampton Street, Undercliffe, said he saw no signs of police or military oppression and was given complete freedom to travel throughout Iraq.

"They weren't aggressive, they were just cautious at the start," said Mr Jamal, who is pictured with Qurban Hussain.

"But once they saw we were genuine people we were given a free hand."

The peace activist, who converted to Islam 18 months ago, said he did not feel that his actions had been used to further Saddam's propaganda war.

"Why should I feel compromised when my sole intention was to go out there as a human shield to protect something that is essential to the women and children out there, the electric and water plants?" he said. "This is one big thing that sticks in my throat. In 1991 the West destroyed electricity and water plants, in other words they were taking away the basic essentials for the women and children of Iraq and this is against all articles of war."

But Shaun Gregory, head of Peace Studies at the University of Bradford, said he believes the human shields are being exploited by the Iraqi government.

"The problem with all of these things is whatever one does one finds it very difficult to control the way in which others manipulate what you are doing," he said.

"There is no doubt that these people are committed and determined to oppose war, but that still allows the possibility that they can be exploited by Saddam Hussein."

Mr Jamal now intends to speak about his trip at local mosques to raise money for medicines and clothing for the Iraqis.

And fellow Bradford human shield Karl Dallas, 72, spoke of his determination to remain in Iraq.

"All I can really say is that as far as I'm concerned I came here to do a job and I'm doing it, and I'll be staying as long as it takes," he said.

"I only hope people will contact Tony Blair and George Bush and ask them not to bomb the sites where we are, because not only are there many westerners in all of them, but, in the case of the oil refinery, lots of people living around the site, including children I've been playing football with in the streets.''