Peace protesters have staged a demonstration at the gates to a factory belonging to defence contractor BAE Systems.

They said the action was in protest at the manufacture of aircraft electronics systems which could be used in a war with Iraq.

Anti-nuclear group Trident Ploughshares said it was targeting the company's plant at Crewe Toll, Edinburgh, because of BAE's role in making electronic equipment for fighter jets.

We're asking BAE Systems to stop supplying these murderous weapons and stop killing innocent people and children Karen Fallon Trident Ploughshares

A group of 10 protesters gathered outside the entrance at 0700 GMT to voice their objection.

Karen Fallon, a spokeswoman for the group, said: "We're asking BAE Systems to stop supplying these murderous weapons and stop killing innocent people and children.

"They are supplying electronics to the bombers. A lot of people go on about the military, but people need to know there are companies like this involved as well."

Lothian and Borders Police said the protest had been "peaceful".

A spokesman for BAE Systems said: "People have a right to demonstrate and as a company we have respected that right this morning. The demonstration has caused minimal disruption to the facility."