The attacks on London's transport system left 56 people dead

Survivors and relatives of those killed have received a letter from government lawyers outlining their position.

The group want an independent review of the way security agencies and others acted in the run-up to the attacks.

They have applied for a judicial review of the government's refusal to launch a full review into the 2005 attacks which killed 56 people and injured about 800.

A Home Office spokesman said: "The home secretary has reiterated her sympathy for the families and survivors of the July 7 attacks.

"The government remains of the opinion that a public inquiry is not necessary.

"We are making no further comment as legal proceedings are ongoing."

'No comfort'

The letter is in response to correspondence received from solicitors acting for the 7 July group, Oury Clark Solicitors.

The group applied at the end of August for a judicial review of the government's continued refusal to launch a full review.

Solicitor James Oury said: "Our clients remain disappointed by this response.

"The government... have refused our clients' request for an independent public inquiry and suggested that our clients should withdraw these proceedings.

"They have also not met our clients' request to engage with them.

"They have given no comfort as to costs and no indication as to when the inquests will take place."

The group says an inquiry is necessary to allow public scrutiny of events and to enable the families of those killed, survivors and other agencies to be involved.

Members of the group argue the government's refusal to hold an inquiry breaches the Human Rights Act because it is failing in its duty to protect life.

The government is against holding such an inquiry saying it would be a drain on resources and tie up key officials and police officers.