NEW DELHI, July 1 (Xinhuanet) -- Britain on Friday reiterated its support for India's efforts to gain a seat on an expanded United Nations Security Council.

    "Britain has been one of the strongest supporters of India's claim for the UN Security Council seat over the years. If the UN is to maintain its international legitimacy, countries like India with its size and global importance should be part of the Security Council," British High Commissioner Michael Arthur told reporters on Friday.

    "We have been one of the active supporters of India's UN aspirations," he said.

    The so-called "G-4" countries -- India, Japan, Brazil and Germany -- are seeking an addition of six permanent members and four non-permanent members to an expanded UN Security Council.

    Asked why Britain had been cagey about co-sponsoring the G-4 resolution, he said: "There are various complicated issues related to it. There are various sensitivities involved. This, however, should not be construed as the lack of support. We will support the G-4 resolution," he said.

    Britain's reaffirmation of support for India's aspirations comes weeks ahead of a vote on the crucial G-4 framework resolution in the UN General Assembly. Enditem