|
 24th
March 2003
I
am currently engaged in a series of meetings with representatives
of Muslim communities, including the Muslim Council of Britain,
the Union of Muslim Organisations and the Muslim Community
Safety Forum. I am therefore aware that British Muslims have
very real and justified concerns at this difficult time, and
I am writing to try to allay some of these.
The
Prime Minister has many times expressed his belief that Islam
is a peaceful religion, which values tolerance and understanding.
British Muslims bring with them a strong and inspiring history
of academic, scientific and cultural achievement and it is
important that we celebrate the contribution they make to
British society.
We
have though seen in the past that at times of heightened tension
in international affairs there has been a rise in the number
of incidents against members of Muslim, and other faith, communities.
Our government is fully committed to providing protection
to all its citizens and all its communities. British Muslims
are an integral part of our society and it is our duty to
provide protection to all sections of the faith communities
and their places of worship.
Police
forces throughout the UK have been alerted to the increased
possibility of crimes being committed towards members of Muslim
communities and will take appropriate steps to safeguard individuals,
places of worship, community centres and other premises where
Muslims gather. They will be acting in accordance with the
publication 'Breaking the Power of Fear and Hate' which is
a guide to identifying and combating hate crime.
It
is important that all incidents of this nature are reported
to the police to enable them to direct their resources to
where they are most needed - and of course they should be
contacted at once in the case of an emergency.
Anyone
who is suffering, or has suffered, abuse or harassment may
also find it helpful to call the Muslim Line, which is part
funded by the Home Office. It is a central information point
for both Muslims and non-Muslims alike who require information
on Muslim businesses, charities and organisations. They are
able to refer callers to appropriate support agencies, either
Muslim or non-Muslim, who can provide further help and counselling
if required.
As
part of the government's ongoing program of engaging with
Muslim communities, I have started a series of visits to listen
to the concerns of Muslim communities around the country and
will be continuing these over the coming months. These visits
are giving me the opportunity to hear for myself of the problems
facing Muslims, and provide an opportunity for face to face
dialogue.
Yours
ever,
GEOFFREY FILKIN
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