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Demonisation of Muslims
THE most sensible contribution on the "veil debate", I feel, has come from Ken Livingstone.
He expressed the view that the vast majority of British residents would prefer Muslim women not to feel the need to wear a veil which inhibits facial expression. However, such a change in lifestyle is, in fact, a matter for Muslim women to determine. It is certainly not helpful for politicians to lecture or lambast any part of the community.
Liberal Party members gathering at our assembly regretted the outburst of Jack Straw, and felt it would only inflame a sense of alienation among Muslims.
For years, Orthodox Jews in communities such as Golders Green have kept their traditional clothing and customs.
It has not created a crisis nor caused ministerial pronouncements. We respect their right to dress differently, just like any other lifestyle choice.
The demonisation of Muslims is totally destructive to our internal cohesion and our global interests.
The overwhelming majority of Muslims in the UK are law-abiding citizens who contribute to the commercial vitality of our country. The profiling of a few grotesque exceptions could be equally applied to non-Muslims.
The Muslim world has genuine and legitimate grievances such as the treatment of the Palestinians and the invasion of Iraq. Jack Straw would be far better focusing to correct these policies than whipping up tensions within the UK.
Cllr Steve Radford, President of The Liberal Party
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