Definition of anti-Muslim hate will not harm free speech, says Steve Reed

"Today, we are adopting a non-statutory definition of anti-Muslim hostility. This gives a clear explanation of unacceptable prejudice, discrimination and hatred targeting Muslims, so we can take action to stop it. The definition safeguards our fundamental right to freedom of speech about religion in general or any religion in particular and ensures that concerns raised in the public interest are protected."

"The government had a duty to act against record levels of hate crime against Muslims, but that you can't tackle a problem if you can't describe it. The three-paragraph definition does not include a reference to race, which is understood to have been a focus of considerable debate among the five-member working group of experts set up to provide the government with the working definition."

"The strategy pledged to Review English language provision to identify best practice, and explore how innovation, including digital delivery, can increase the numbers able to speak English, with conclusions published in Autumn 2026. Government sources said this was an attempt to address the role of English as a shared language to bring communities together."

The government introduced a non-statutory definition of anti-Muslim hate to combat rising hate crimes against Muslims while safeguarding freedom of speech. Communities Secretary Steve Reed emphasized that the definition enables action against prejudice and discrimination without restricting fundamental rights to discuss religion. The accompanying Social Cohesion Strategy includes expanded powers to tackle extremism through university staff whistleblowing routes and Charity Commission enforcement. A key component emphasizes English as a shared language for community integration, with plans to review language provision and explore innovative delivery methods to increase English speakers, with results expected by Autumn 2026.

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