Ban Groups if They Break the Law, Not on the Basis of Media Hysteria

The Muslim Council of Britain (MCB) today reiterated its condemnation of groups such as the extremist Islam4UK (and its iterations) whose popularity resonates more with some journalists than with anyone in Britain’s Muslim community.

The overwhelming majority of Britons, including Muslims, want nothing to do with such extremists and have repudiated their odious messages time and time again. The only beneficiaries of this tiny band of misfits are bigots and Islamophobes with an insatiable appetite to demonise Muslims.

However, addressing this public nuisance by banning the latest nomenclature of the same individuals will not serve long term interests. Dr Muhammad Abdul Bari stated: “Our overriding concern should be for the public safety of our citizens, irrespective of their backgrounds. We are concerned that violent protests by groups such as EDL, are still free to cause people to fear for their safety in violation of our laws, yet non-violent groups are at risk of being banned for political expediency.”

“We would also encourage the government to disclose the consultation process that took place, and with whom before deciding to ban the group”, he added.

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Notes to Editors:

The Muslim Council of Britain is the UK’s largest Muslim umbrella body with around 500 affiliated national, regional and local organisations, mosques, charities and schools.

Media enquiries should be addressed to the MCB Media Office on 0845 26 26 786 or media@mcb.org.uk.

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