The government has extended a consultation on controversial plans to define ‘Islamophobia’ after it was accused of trying to press ahead with ‘secretive’ plans behind closed doors.
The leader of the Free Speech Union, Lord Young, said that a broadly-worded definition could treat criticism of Islam as a form of ‘racism’, leaving critics in fear of speaking out.
Furthermore, Lord Young said the consultation process had failed to invite submissions from key groups that might challenge the definition over its impact on free speech.
He listed Christian Concern, The Christian Institute, the Adam Smith Institute, and the Equality and Human Rights Commission.
In response, the Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner extended the consultation’s deadline to 20 July and widened the list of consultees.
Lord Young said, ‘I’m glad the working group has abandoned its plans to confine its consultation to a small group of hand-picked activists in response to my letter.
‘But given that the group will now be carrying out a proper consultation and extending the deadline, I trust it will delay coming up with a definition of Islamophobia until it has had a proper chance to consider all the responses.
‘Hoping to complete its work within a couple of months is now completely unrealistic.’
A spokesperson for Angela Rayner said, ‘The independent working group is listening to a broad range of views and perspectives.
‘The call for evidence will enable them to build on the extensive consultation already undertaken, ensuring the advice provided to the government reflects diverse experiences and opinions, while also safeguarding our vital and unwavering right to freedom of speech.’
