EGN NEWS DESK
A brand new definition of extremism might result in a “clampdown” on Christian beliefs, The Christian Institute has warned.
The authorities is reportedly planning to introduce a brand new definition that may embrace makes an attempt to “undermine British values”.
The Times reported this week {that a} new definition is being drawn up by Communities Secretary Michael Gove following the Prime Minister’s pledge to sort out “acts of violence” towards Jews and Muslims. Under the plans, extremists might be unable to entry venues or public funding.
Christian MP Miriam Cates is among the many critics who’ve expressed considerations concerning the plans. Writing on X, she stated it could be a “slippery slope in the direction of the abolition of basic freedoms”.
“What does it even imply to ‘undermine British values’ when there isn’t a consensus – and definitely no authorized definition – of what these values are?” she stated.
“Worth noting that makes an attempt to implement ‘British values’ in faculties have led to a woke campaign the place what many think about to be ‘extremist’ views on intercourse, gender & race have taken priority over organic & historic truth and the place lecturers & pupils are frightened to talk out.”
The Christian Institute has warned towards a “broad” definition, fearing its influence on non secular freedom.
The organisation’s Deputy Director Ciarán Kelly stated, “Legitimate makes an attempt to sort out violence on our streets must not ever pave the best way to banning opinions that are deemed unpopular or old school.
“All too typically, new measures towards terrorism or extremism find yourself endangering moderately than defending non secular freedom. We noticed this solely too nicely when Ofsted inspectors investigating ‘British Values’ threatened to shut Jewish faculties in the event that they did not educate youngsters about same-sex marriage.
“This might not have been supposed, however sadly it was the end result. No harmless particular person, Christian or in any other case, must be endangered by obscure laws which threatens our historic liberties of freedom of speech and freedom of faith.”
