Conservatives who, when in opposition, were arch critics of Labour’s association with some avowedly Islamic groups. They were instrumental behind the entry bans on Yusuf al-Qaradawi, an Egyptian radical cleric who had previously visited London on the invitation of London Mayor Ken, Hezbollah’s leader Ibrahim Mousavi, and many others, including Pakistani clerics and former ISI chief Hameed Gul.
Through a statement sent to this newspaper, the chief organiser of the Al-Khair Peace Convention 2010 pointed out that his organisation would never, in any circumstances, countenance the transgression of any UK laws. Imam Qasim Rashid Ahmad said: “This includes any incitement or glorification of any act of terrorism or violence or discrimination however construed.”
He said the media treatment afforded to the televangelist had not been objective and his headline utterances had been quoted “out of context in all instances”. “It is also a matter for the record that Dr Zakir Naik has been unequivocal in his condemnation of all acts of terrorism (to include the 9/11 and 7/7 acts) where he specifically labelled those who committed the atrocities as non-Muslims,” Imam Ahmad said, adding that the Border Agency had desisted from moves to revoke his visa because they knew well about Naik’s views.
But a Conservative MP asked his government on Thursday to ban “all kinds of preachers of hate” and not be risk-averse to those who incited division. MP Patrick Mercer told The News he failed to understand why the preachers of hate were allowed into the country to “bend and twist” the teachings of Islam and corrupt the susceptible minds. “We have freedom of speech in this country that is extremely important to us and thatís why our men and women are dying in Afghanistan to ensure its supremacy. But there is a difference between freedom of speech and preaching hate and violence and disdain for human rights. I will ask the government to keep anybody out who is preaching hatred in any form.”
A UK Border Agency spokesperson said: “Each case is considered on its own merits. When assessing a visa application we will consider the previous conduct of the individual and we will ensure that the UK does not support or provide a platform for the promotion of violent extremism.“We reserve the right to revoke someoneís visa if they are found to be promoting extreme views which are contrary to UK values.”
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