As Britain approaches a pivotal General Election, the Muslim Council of Britain (MCB) has unveiled a set of pledges highlighting key issues impacting British Muslim communities aimed at ensuring a more inclusive, fair, and equitable society.
A key concern for many British Muslims is rising hate crime to which the MCB advocates the adoption of the APPG British Muslim definition of Islamophobia and a real commitment to tackling hate.
The MCB emphasises the importance of meaningful engagement with Muslim communities to rebuild trust and ensure political inclusion at a time where extreme far-right voices are working to do just the opposite.
Reflecting on the manifesto pledges the MCB Secretary General, Zara Mohammed, said:
“This General Election will set an important course for Britain’s political future. For British Muslims, it’s a critical time to ensure our politics are inclusive, creating a society of fairness and opportunity. We have sadly seen the amplification of voices like Nigel Farage, Suella Braverman and a dangerous move to the far- right, at the expense of further demonising already marginalised Muslim communities. This must be stopped.
The next government cannot risk failing the next generation of young British Muslims, which is why we need leadership that works to tackle the economic crisis impacting the future opportunities of millions of Britons in the worst socio-economic areas, as well as work to create a hate-free society.
For many British Muslims, the devastating situation in Gaza will remain a critical part of their decision-making. While Muslims are not a homogenous group and will vote for a diversity of parties or candidates, it remains crucial for a future government to realise the work needed to ensure the UK remains a key advocate for human rights and peace in this world. An immediate and permanent ceasefire in Gaza and recognition of a Palestinian state would be important for this.
It is time for change, and we are asking political parties to support our Muslim manifesto to ensure real commitment to working for the common good, a society in which all Britons count.”
[ENDS]
Notes:
1. For media enquiries: media@mcb.org.uk
2. To read full: https://mcb.org.uk/initiatives/ge2024-key-commitments/
Commitments for British Muslims A 2024 General Election Guide for Prospective Parliamentary Candidates