Anti-Muslim hatred definition will in 'no way' restrict free speech, says Reed

"Government efforts to protect Muslims from abuse will in "no way" restrict people's freedom to criticise Islam, the communities secretary has said. Steve Reed told the BBC he believes a new definition of "anti-Muslim hostility" included in the government's social cohesion plan finds the right balance."

"During the consultation, the EHRC said a new definition could cause "further harm to community cohesion if it is perceived as a threat to freedom of expression". Reed said "if you can't describe a problem you can't do anything about it" as he defended the development of the final definition."

"The definition is non-statutory, meaning it is not set in law or legally binding, but will provide guidance to public bodies on what constitutes unacceptable treatment of Muslims. An independent group, led by former Conservative minister Dominic Grieve, was established by the government last year to provide advice on the definition."

The government is introducing a new definition of anti-Muslim hostility as part of its social cohesion plan to address record levels of anti-Muslim hate crime. Communities Secretary Steve Reed asserts the definition will not restrict freedom of expression or criticism of Islam. An independent task force led by former Conservative minister Dominic Grieve developed the non-statutory definition to guide public bodies on unacceptable treatment of Muslims. The Equality and Human Rights Commission previously warned the definition could create a chilling effect on free speech. The broader social cohesion plan also includes measures to promote integration and combat extremist influence in institutions like charities and universities.

Read at www.bbc.com