In the latest strikes on Libya, British forces attacked a training base used by bodyguards for Muammar Gaddafi’s inner circle. NATO also conducted 136 air sorties that aimed to identify and hit targets.

Meanwhile, Russia called on Libya to stop using force against civilians. It is a part of a drive to secure a truce between supporters of Gaddafi and rebels who are fighting to end his rule.

A poll on Monday showed that Libyans in rebel-held areas are split over whether they would accept foreign troops on their soil, with most only willing to accept their presence in a supporting role.

The Libyan Oil Minister Shukri Ghanem appears to have defected according to security sources in Tunisia.

Tunisian officials say Mr Ghanem – a former prime minister – crossed into Tunisia by road before going to the island of Djerba. A spokesman for the Libyan rebels said the minister had defected, and was on his way to a European country.

The Libyan government said he had been on official business in Tunisia, but that Tripoli had lost touch with him.