U.K. denies direct contact with kidnappers (hostages in Iraq)

Denying reports direct contact has already been made, the British government says it "stands ready" to hear from the abductors of four aid workers, including two Canadians, abducted in Iraq.

Responding to news that a western diplomat in Baghdad had spoken to the kidnappers, British Foreign Secretary Jack Straw used a televised appearance to make it clear negotiations are not underway.

"The British government's policy on negotiating with kidnappers, and on ransoms is well known and very clear," Straw told reporters in London Monday.

"However, as we've said in the past, if the hostage-takers want to make contact with the British government, we stand ready to hear what they have to say."

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