A domestic abuse victim who called police was directed to her local Sharia council instead.

Another woman who told West Yorkshire police that her ex had threatened to flee to Pakistan with their daughter was also advised to contact her Sharia council.

Sharia law lays down a series of rules and guidelines for Muslims.

In Britain there are around 85 Sharia courts which rule in family and inheritance disputes between Muslims who agree to be bound by the decisions.

In Britain there are around 85 Sharia courts which rule in family and inheritance disputes between Muslims who agree to be bound by the decisions (file picture)

It comes as Home Secretary launched an independent inquiry into the 'harm' caused by Sharia law courts operating in Britain.

It will focus on several issues, including the treatment of women in divorce, domestic violence and custody cases.

West Yorkshire Police told the Sun on Sunday it had 'thoroughly investigated' both complaints but no crimes were recorded and no arrests were made.

A long-awaited independent review of Sharia law will examine how it can cause 'harm' in communities (file pic)

A spokesman added: 'It is not a common practice. We recognise them only for matters that are not for the police.'

Conservative MP Philip Davies told the newspaper: 'The police shouldn't be advising people to go to Sharia councils at all.'

Both incidents occurred in 2014 in the Kirklees borough, which includes the towns of Huddersfield and Dewsbury.