A Shropshire MP today suggested the Libyan people be given a referendum on whether they would like the exiled prince of Libya restored to the throne to head a constitutional monarchy.

Muhammad al-Senussi has been living in London since his family was overthrown by Colonnel Gaddafi in 1969. Tory MP Daniel Kawczynski said he supported the National Transitional Council of Libya.

But, he was “concerned” Libyans had not been given the chance themselves to decide on what sort of constitution they wanted.

The NTC yesterday appointed Abdel-Rahim al-Keeb, an electronics engineer from Tripoli, as its new interim president, while the country seeks to re-wire itself for the post-Gaddafi era.

Mr Kawczynski argued the restoration of the monarchy in Libya offered “stability” – and the Crown Prince a “unifying figure, untainted by any previous association with the Gaddafi regime” who would “command respect” and could “bring the whole country together”.

The Shrewsbury & Atcham MP said he had contacted Prime Minister David Cameron to seek the Crown Prince’s guidance and views on Libya.

“After 42-years of absolutely tyrannical despotism I don’t think it is unreasonable to have a referendum,” said the Tory MP.

“I, for one, think another politician, another head of state that is a politician, is the last thing that the Libyan people want, and I think they need to be consulted in order for them to decide what sort of constitution they want.

“Yes this is a matter for the Libyan people, but ultimately, our country has put our service personnel at risk and I think we have a right to advise and caution the NTC in this regard,” he added.

Mr Kawczynski made the case while spearheading a debate at Westminster on the UK’s relationship with Libya. He also asked if the Government was happy for the killer of British police officer WPc Yvonne Fletcher to face trial in Libya.

Foreign Office Minister Jeremy Browne said the Government was committed to building a “revitalised” relationship with Libya which addressed “past wrongs”.