Americans and British expatriates living in Bahrain have been advised to keep low profile as many businessmen spoke about a lull in their businesses due to the situation in Afganistan.

Asked about precautionary measures in general Tamsin Clayton, British Embassy's Third Secretary, Political, Press and Public Affairs told Gulf News yesterday that the embassy section will be closed on Saturday for routine maintenance work on its computer system.

Apart from that it is life as usual and British nationals are going about their businesses without any change.

But the British Embassy has stepped up its security and has advised the British expatriates to excersise caution".

"Certainly we are not advising the British expatriates to leave Bahrain," said Tamsin who thanked the Bahrain government for the support it has extended to the international coalition against terrorism.

Gulf News was unable to get through to the American Embassy in Bahrain for comments. But the hotline maintained by the embassy informed that air strikes on Afghanistan may lead to anti-U.S. sentiments and possibly retaliatory actions and thus needs precautions.

The Americans were also asked to be in constant touch with the American embassy or consulate. According to the hotline, the embassy remains open and offer all services to Americans and foreigners.

Meanwhile Dr Paul Armerding,Chief Medical Officer of American Mission Hospital which has been in the island for more than a century said: "We continue to service the people in the health care and we don't intend to deviate from this cause...

"In keeping with the current international situation we have advised our staff to take specific precautions and also briefed them of the kind of issues people are concerned today".

Meanwhile many American fast food outlets spoke about a decline in their businesses during the past month. Many who insisted on anonymity affirmed that they are experiencing a lull in business although they could not mention any specific reason for the current trend since Sept. 11.

Many restaurants frequented by expatriates too were experiencing drop in business.

Jim Lawless, the owner of Jim Restaurant in Adliya said: "Business is a bit down. But plenty of nationals, Arab and Asian families continue to come".