Patrick Way

The Free Speech Union is bringing a judicial review against Communities Secretary Steve Reed, challenging his decision to impose an official definition of ‘anti-Muslim hostility’ (Islamophobia). This is a Muslim blasphemy law by the back door, which will silence legitimate criticism of Islam and prevent people from speaking out on issues such as the grooming gangs scandal. The proposed definition is vague and subjective, and liable to be weaponised to shut down lawful debate about Islam, Muslims, and Islamic practices and history. Adopting such a definition — let alone appointing an Islamophobia ‘Tsar’ — breaches the ‘occupying the field’ doctrine in public law. Our lawyers have sent a Pre-Action Protocol letter setting out why the definition is unlawful, and have asked the Government to pause both its rollout and the appointment of the ‘Tsar’ until the case is resolved. Judicial reviews against Secretaries of State are costly, but this is a fight we must win. Blasphemy laws were abolished by Parliament in 2008 — let’s keep it that way. Read our letter and support our crowdfunder 👇

I started the Secret Policeman's Ball shows and produced the first five of them to give them a steady flow of income I now dissociate myself from them

Instead of simply disagreeing with Nick, these MPs are calling for him to be “investigated”. This is exactly why an Islamophobia definition is so dangerous. People need to be able to disagree and debate without the authorities weighing in.

You really have no idea what you’re talking about. Less than 30 minutes ago, a missile landed in the Jewish Quarter of Jerusalem’s Old City - literally steps from the Temple Mount and the Al-Aqsa Mosque. Israel is not restricting access to these holy sites to violate religious rights. It is doing so to save lives. And that includes the Western Wall, which has stood empty since the war began. Before making reckless accusations, get your facts straight.