Shafaqna English- A proposal to introduce new laws aimed at protecting Muslims from hate in the UK has led to a behind-the-scenes effort to prevent an official definition of Islamophobia from being adopted.
Speaking to people inside the room during high-level meetings, our investigation has found that ministers now believe introducing Islamophobia legislation risks reintroducing long-abolished laws on religious beliefs.
There has been vigorous debate within senior government ranks about bringing in new laws but the influential Morgan McSweeney, chief of staff to Prime Minister Keir Starmer, is one of those who has come out in opposition.
As the frequency of attacks on Muslims living in Britain rose to exceed 3,000 hate crimes last year, the Labour government had promised new legislation to protect the community.
Yet it has emerged that Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government Steve Reed, who replaced Angela Rayner when she resigned as deputy prime minister over a mortgage row last month, is firmly against such a move. And he has the backing of Downing Street.
Sources: National News
Islamophobia in UK’s Media