Mick Hartley

Further to that call for a blasphemy law, from UnHerd:

The MP for Birmingham Hall Green and Moseley asked Keir Starmer if he would “commit to introducing measures to prohibit the desecration of all religious texts and the prophets of the Abrahamic religions”. Speaking in the Commons, Ali added that “November marks Islamophobia awareness month,” and that “last year the United Nations Human Rights Council adopted a resolution condemning the desecration of religious texts, including the Quran, despite opposition from the previous government.”

The Prime Minister replied that the Government is “committed to tackling all forms of hatred and division”, including Islamophobia and antisemitism. Ali said that “mindless desecration only serves to fuel division and hatred,” with the Prime Minister adding: “desecration is awful.” A video of Ali’s question has gone viral on X, receiving much criticism.

The Prime Minister might have pointed out that we live in a secular society in which a blasphemy law has no place, and that no religion and no belief is above criticism or ridicule. But, of course, he didn't.

In response to Ali’s comments today, the National Secular Society said it is “deeply alarming that an MP is calling for the introduction of new blasphemy laws”. The organisation added: “Concerningly, the Prime Minister offers no defence of free expression. MPs should uphold values which are foundational to our society — not seek to dismantle them.”