The British Embassy in Belgrade came under attack as protests against Kosovan independence swept the Serbian capital, Foreign Secretary David Miliband said.

Damage to the building was "limited" and embassy staff were safe, Mr Miliband said.

The United States Embassy was torched by Serb rioters and a charred body was found after the attack.

Both the UK and the United States have recognised Kosovo after it declared independence from Serbia earlier this week.

In a statement, Mr Miliband said: "I have been closely watching reports of the violence in Belgrade against international embassies, including the UK embassy.

"I want to underline that we are in close touch with our Ambassador in Belgrade and understand that all our embassy staff are safe, that the premises are currently secure and that damage to the building is limited.

"While the Kosovo issue raises strong feelings in Serbia, no cause can justify such displays of violence.

"We have made clear to the Serbian government that we expect them to fully uphold their obligations to protect our embassy and other diplomatic premises in Belgrade."