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.
