Parliamentary Liaison - Racial and Religious Hatred Bill - October 2005

An expression of concern regarding Racial and Religious Hatred Bill 2005

Religious liberty is a cornerstone of democracy and an integral aspect of the recognition of the equal value of every individual. As members of the Religious Society of Friends, we affirm our shared responsibility of working with Government and civil society to uphold this principle and oppose any violence or intimidation, which could undermine the right of individuals to worship as they freely choose. We deplore any actions of extremist groups but consider the Government`s current "Racial and Religious Hatred Bill" is misconceived as a way of fulfilling its responsibility in addressing this serious concern. We remain unconvinced of the desirability of creating new offences when present Public Order offences, and breaches of the peace, are frequently ignored and remain unprosecuted. We consider limitations on the freedom of speech are a very poor way of combating bigotry and the use of the Parliament Acts to enforce such legislation would be a disproportionate measure that might reinforce the very racism it is designed to oppose. 

We ask the Government, before legislating in this area, to learn from the experience of other countries including India where legislation creating such offences has compounded the problems they have sought to address.[1] Such legislation should be introduced only after widespread public consultation and on the basis of broad cross-cultural political consent.

[1]Indian Attorney General in evidence to the House of Lords Select Committee on Religious Offences in England and Wales in 2003 stated that, "criminal laws prohibiting hate speech and expression will encourage intolerance, divisiveness and unreasonable interference with freedom of expression. That is what is increasingly happening today in India."