The task force on Guantánamo Bay detainees set up by Barack Obama has recommended the administration go ahead and release into the US two Chinese Uighurs held at the prison, the Financial Times has learned.

The White House’s hesitation on its original decision to release the two comes as Republicans increase their attacks on Mr Obama’s plans to close Guantánamo, which would involve transferring a total of some 240 detainees to the US.