A south London computer expert accused of running terrorist websites has started his appeal against extradition to America.

Babar Ahmad, of Tooting, was freed without charge after his first arrest by British anti-terror police in December 2003. But eight months later he was re-arrested under a controversial fast-track extradition treaty with the US.

America accuses the 30-year-old Briton of using US websites and emails to raise cash and recruit fighters for the Taleban and the Chechen Mujahidin.

Under the Extradition Act 2003, Britain is the only European country that allows its citizens to be sent for trail in the US without prima facie proof of their guilt. However, the US has refused to ratify its side of the treaty that would return the favour.

Today the Court of Appeal was told there would be "a real risk of fundamental injustice and discriminatory treatment" if Ahmed is handed to America.

Ahmed is fighting extradition along with fellow Briton Haroon Aswat, who was arrested in Zambia for allegedly plotting to set up an Afghan war training camp in Oregon.

Edward Fitzgerald QC, acting for both men, asked two senior judges to halt extradition over the danger of human rights abuses.

He said the Britons could face solitary confinement, indefinite detention and trial by military commission as enemy soldiers in the US - "a flagrant denial of justice".

Lord Justice Laws and Mr Justice Walker should not rely on pledges of fair treatment by the Americans, the QC added.

Ahmed and Aswat listened to the opening of the three-day via video link from Woodhill prison near Milton Keynes, Bucks, where they are being held.