British Muslim Perspectives at the 2019 General Election Contents

British Muslim Perspectives at the 2019 General Election

1 The Muslim Council of Britain (MCB) is a national representative Muslim umbrella body with over 500 affiliated national, regional and local organisations, including mosques, charities and schools.

It is an independent, democratic body, established to promote consultation, cooperation and coordination on Muslim affairs in theUnited Kingdom.

The Muslim Council of Britain is a non-sectarian body working for the common good without interfering in, displacing or isolating any existing Muslim work in communities.

It is a broad-based, representative organisation of Muslims in Britain, accommo- dating and reflecting the variety of social and cultural backgrounds and outlook of Muslim communities.

The Muslim Council of Britain is pledged to work for the common good of society as a whole; encouraging individual Muslims and Muslim organisations to play a full and participatory role in public life.

Authored by Zainab Gulamali All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reprinted or reproduced in any form or by any means, now known or hereinafter invented, including photo- copying and recording or in any information, storage or retrieval system, without the permission in writing of the publisher.

ISBN 978-1-5272-5326-1

PO Box 57330 London E1 2WJ, United Kingdom [email protected] www.mcb.org.uk/muslimsvote

British Muslim Perspectives at the 2019 General Election Contents

Introduction 4

Ten Key Pledges to Support Muslim Communities 6

How British Muslim Votes Matter 8

British Muslims in our Democracy and Public Life 16

Strengthening and Celebrating a Multifaith and Multicultural Society 20

Islamophobia 26

Economy 32

The United Kingdom and the European Union 38

Education 42

Health and Social Care 48

Criminal Justice 54

Immigration and Refugees 60

International Affairs 64

Endnotes 68 Introduction

The forthcoming General Election is an important opportunity for a renewed national conversation on matters of great significance. With politics in the UK going through a time of unprecedented change, it is more important than ever that all Muslims who are eligible to vote do so and participate in the political process.

In many respects, the issues that up by the next government, making a concern Muslims will be no different to positive impact on British Muslims and those facing fellow Britons. In constitu- indeed, society at large. encies up and down the country, British Muslims will be just as impacted by The MCB’s vision is to empower Muslim Brexit, our health service and the state communities to engage in political and of the economy as anyone else. In a 2016 public life and contribute to achieving survey, 93% of Muslims said they felt a just, cohesive and successful British they belonged to Britain, with more than society. The rich traditions and herit- half saying they felt this “very strongly”.1 age of Islam urge Muslims to be concerned about and engage with the 4 Like other faith communities with a issues facing the society in which they strong affinity to their religious iden- live, whether it is the example of the tity, it is evident that Muslims in Britain Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon are passionate about being both British him) establishing the trade pact League and Muslim. In addition, there are of the Virtuous (Hilf al-Fudul) to enable serious concerns of the resurgence respect of fairness in trade agreements, of the far-right together with growing to Prophetic sayings (hadiths) urging Islamophobia from the governing party people to conserve water when per- to sections of the media, which have forming ablution (wudu) “even if you shaped social attitudes about Muslims. are at a flowing river” which should guide our approach to environmental It is with this background and in this stewardship. environment that British Muslim Per- spectives at the 2019 General Election Therefore, this General Election is a is published by the Muslim Council of valuable opportunity for British Muslims Britain (MCB). It reflects a considered to make their voices heard by exercis- view from British Muslim communities ing their civil obligation to engage with and is offered for reflection by political the political process. The MCB calls on parties, prospective parliamentary can- British Muslims to participate in the didates and policymakers. This report is political process and seeks to facilitate published with the hope that the recom- their engagement so as to ensure that mendations outlined here will be taken every voice is heard in this election. 5 Ten Key Pledges to Support Muslim Communities

The Muslim Council of Britain (MCB) has developed extensive experience through working for the interests of Muslim communities for over 20 years, with polling suggesting that a majority of respondents believe the Muslim Council of Britain does a good job of representing the views of Muslims.2 The MCB has once again conducted a detailed survey of its affiliates and wider Muslim communities, including speaking to over 500 Muslims across Britain about the policies they want political parties and the next government to prioritise. The following represents a consensus view of those surveyed, which have been consolidated into key pledges the MCB seeks to obtain from political parties in the 2019 General Election.

These pledge requests are by no means exhaustive and are derived from this election policy platform. Through this policy platform, the MCB seeks to highlight the positive change needed to unlock the full potential of Muslim communities to 6 play their full part in the success of our nation.

1 Tackle Racism and Islamophobia 2 Religious Liberty Adopt the APPG on British Muslims Defend the right of Muslims – and definition of Islamophobia across people of all faiths – to express their the UK, defining Islamophobia faith, be that in religious clothing, as being rooted in racism and as food and reasonable accommo- a type of racism that targets ex- dation of religious observance. pressions of Muslimness or perceived Muslimness. 3 Engagement with Muslim Combat Islamophobia, anti-Semi- Communities tism, far-right sentiment and all Commit to proactively engage forms of racism and bigotry in with a broad and representative political parties, on our streets, spectrum of British Muslim com- online and in our media. munities to ensure a plurality of views are being considered. 4 Safety at Places of Worship 8 Criminal Justice Safeguard visitors at places of Address the disparity of treat- worship, by providing support and ment and outcomes for BAME funding for any Muslim institutions people within the criminal ju stice to implement safety measures, in system. Rebuild trust with Muslim line with other faith groups. communities by ensuring all counter-terror legislation is evidence-led, non-discriminatory, and open to 5 Effective Health and Elderly evaluation. Care Services Focus policymaking on ensuring equity for all sections of society, 9 Equality in Education recognising the gap in health and Ensure a fair approach to educa- wellbeing standards, particularly tional provision for all children, between older and elderly M uslims with a syllabus that reflects the and the general population. diversity of communities, with appropriate parent involvement. 6 Refugees Encourage the resettlement of 10 Ethical Foreign Policy refugees across the UK, working Support a binding recognition with communities to address and of Palestine as an independent 7 tackle issues faced by refugees and sovereign state, and address resettling in Britain. human rights abuses abroad, including in Kashmir, Xinjiang and Myanmar. 7 Full Economic, Social and Public Participation in British Life Enhance democracy by enabling increased participation of minorities and women in politics and public life, addressing the underlying socio-economic challenges in place. How British Muslim Votes Matter

As the Muslim Council of Britain’s British Muslims in Numbers report observes, there are 26 parliamentary constituencies in England and Wales that have a Muslim population of 20% or more. In 2017, Muslim voters made up an estimated 10% or more of voters in 83 constituencies, 13% of all parliamentary seats. Across the UK, two constituencies, Birmingham, Hodge Hill and Bradford West, have estimated Muslim electorates of over 50%.3

Parliamentary constituencies with over 20% Muslim population

Muslims as % Majority Party in Overall Muslim Constituency of Overall 2017 Election Population Population Population

Birmingham, Labour 121,678 63,417 52.1 Hodge Hill

Bradford West Labour 114,761 58,872 51.3 8

Birmingham, Labour 115,904 53,990 46.6 Hall Green

East Ham Labour 149,842 56,008 37.4

Bradford East Labour 113,820 42,056 36.9

Blackburn Labour 107,246 38,887 36.3

Bethnal Green Labour 125,351 44,409 35.4 and Bow

Birmingham, Labour 126,693 44,626 35.2 Ladywood

Ilford South Labour 131,035 45,757 34.9

Poplar and Labour 128,745 43,287 33.6 Limehouse Continued from page 8

Muslims as % Majority Party in Overall Muslim Constituency of Overall 2017 Election Population Population Population

Manchester, Labour 111,198 32,010 28.8 Gorton

Leicester South Labour (Co-op) 119,287 33,152 27.8

West Ham Labour 158,142 42,448 26.8

Walthamstow Labour (Co-op) 111,263 28,207 25.4

Luton South Labour 110,180 27,874 25.3

Oldham West Labour (Co-op) 102,616 25,220 24.6 and Royton

Edmonton Labour (Co-op) 112,059 27,488 24.5

Slough Labour 134,048 31,942 23.8

9 Rochdale Labour 107,805 25,429 23.6

Birmingham, Labour 107,090 24,268 22.7 Perry Barr

Leyton and Labour 104,183 23,582 22.6 Wanstead

Westminster Labour 116,771 26,431 22.6 North

Luton North Labour 98,947 22,142 22.4

Brent Central Labour 137,438 29,198 21.2

Birmingham, Labour 106,738 21,992 20.6 Yardley

Leicester East Labour 108,520 21,705 20.0

Taken from British Muslims in Numbers: A Demographic, Socio-Economic and Health Profile of Muslims Why it appears Muslims voting made a difference in high and medium impact seats in 2017

Analysis by the MCB ahead of the election identified 16 constituencies where the impact of Muslim communities could be “high”. In these seats, the swing in the majority towards Labour was 7,789 on average, equivalent to c.16% of the electorate, compared to the national swing of c.2%. Every one of these 16 seats are now held by the Labour Party, with the Labour majority increasing in 11 of the seats where it was the incumbent, and five previously Conservative seats being won by Labour.

The MCB also identified 23 constituencies where the impact of Muslim communities could be “medium”. In these, the swing in the majority towards Labour (or the Liberal Democrats in the Conservative-Lib Dem marginal of Kingston & Surbiton) was 6,839 on average (c.15% of the electorate, compared to c.2% national swing).

Of these “medium” impact seats, 16 seats in which Labour was the incumbent saw an increase in the Labour majority, with the exception of Bolton North East. Of the seven previously Conservative seats:

• In five seats, the Conservatives retained the seat with a smaller majority due to a swing to Labour.

• In one seat, the Liberal Democrats gained from the Conservatives.

• In one seat, the Conservatives increased their majority by 135 votes (Bolton West).

The 2017 General Election delivered an political party, it did appear to show inconclusive result, with no party gain- the strength and impact of Muslim ing a majority in the House of Com- communities coming out to vote. mons. The Conservative Party gained the greatest number of seats with 317, In this report, the MCB has identi- but this was still 9 seats short of a fied 31 marginal seats where Muslim majority. voters are expected to have a “high” or “medium” impact. This analysis Though the 2017 General Election failed compares the number of Muslims of to show overwhelming support for any voting age in each constituency, as

British Muslim P erspectives at the 2019 General Election calculated by the MCB’s Research and The number of Muslims above the 11 Documentation Committee, updated voting age (above the age of 18) in a population-by-constituency data from constituency was calculated by the June 2018 and the results of the 2017 Muslim Council of Britain’s Research & General Election. There are 18 marginal Documentation Committee. The broad constituencies which have been identi- principle used the proportion of Mus- fied as ones in which Muslim voters may lims in each constituency (split by age have a “high” impact and 13 constitu- band) in the 2011 Census, and the total encies which have been identified as population in each constituency as at ones in which Muslim voters may have a June 2018 (ONS), with slight differ- “medium” impact. ences between England & Wales, Scot- land and Northern Ireland. The following metrics were calculated for all constituencies in the UK and The estimated number of likely Muslim Northern Ireland: voters was calculated by assuming Muslims above the age of 18 in the con- A. Margin of victory stituency vote in a similar proportion to the broader 2017 electorate in that B. Estimated number of eligible Muslim constituency. voters

C. Total size of electorate. High Impact

Constituency Margin of MP name Party Runner-up party name victory

Kensington Emma Dent Coad Labour Conservative 20

Dudley North Ian Austin Labour Conservative 22

Richmond Park Zac Goldsmith Conservative Liberal Democrats 45

Glasgow South Chris Stephens SNP Labour 60 West

Keighley John Grogam Labour Conservative 239

Chipping Barnet Theresa Villers Conservative Labour 353

Hendon Matthew Offord Conservative Labour 1,072

683 12 Peterborough Lisa Forbes Labour Brexit

Pendle Andrew Stephenson Conservative Labour 1,279

Bedford Mohammad Yasin Labour Conservative 789

Colne Valley Thelma Walker Labour Conservative 95

Finchley and Mike Freer Conservative Labour 1,657 Golders Green

Harrow East Bob Blackman Conservative Labour 1,757

Dewsbury Paula Sherriff Labour Conservative 3,321

Putney Justine Greening Conservative Labour 1,554

Cities Of London Mark Field Conservative Labour 3,148 and Westminster

Glasgow Central Alison Thewliss SNP Labour 2,267

Watford Richard Harrington Conservative Labour 2,092

The MCB considers these 18 seats to be "High-Impact", because the current margin of victory is small (<5000), and the proportion of Muslim voters in the constituency is significant compared to the margin of victory (Muslim population > 5% and estimated number of Muslim voters > 5x margin of victory; or Muslim population > 2.5% and estimated number of Muslim voters > 10x margin of victory) Continued from page 12

% of voting age Estimated Total size Constituency constituents number of eligible Muslim electorate of 2017 name who are Muslim Muslim voters* vs. margin electorate (June 2018) (June 2018)

Kensington 60,588 9% 5,431 271.5x

Dudley North 62,043 4% 1,666 75.7x

Richmond Park 80,025 4% 3,213 71.4x

Glasgow South 62,991 4% 1,430 23.8x West

Keighley 71,429 9% 5,158 21.6x

Chipping Barnet 77,218 6% 4,087 11.6x

Hendon 76,522 12% 8,395 7.8x

Peterborough 70,199 11% 4,841 7.1x 13

Pendle 64,962 14% 6,519 5.1x

Bedford 71,829 6% 3,323 4.2x

Colne Valley 84,387 5% 3,393 3.7x

Finchley and 73,329 8% 5,874 3.5x Golders Green

Harrow East 71,755 10% 5,958 3.4x

Dewsbury 81,343 14% 8,632 2.6x

Putney 65,031 6% 3,557 2.3x

Cities Of London 61,533 10% 7,113 2.3x and Westminster

Glasgow Central 64,346 10% 5,016 2.2x

Watford 86,507 7% 4,275 2.0x

*Estimate based on assuming proportion of Muslim voters equivalent to proportion of broader electorate. Medium Impact

Constituency Margin of MP name Party Runner-up party name victory

Southampton, Royston Smith Conservative Labour 31 Itchen

Canterbury Rosie Duffield Labour Conservative 187

Glasgow North Paul Sweeney Labour SNP 242 East

Thurrock Jackie Doyle-Price Conservative Labour 345

Stoke-On-Trent Jack Brereton Conservative Labour 663 South

Chingford and Iain Duncan Smith Conservative Labour 2,438 Woodford Green

14 Crawley Henry Smith Conservative Labour 2,457

Stewart Malcolm Glasgow South SNP Labour 2,027 McDonald

Enfield, Bambos Labour Conservative 4,355 Southgate Charalambous

Bolton North East David Crausby Labour Conservative 3,797

Wolverhampton Eleanor Smith Labour Conservative 2,185 South West

Halifax Holly Lynch Labour Conservative 5,376

Reading East Matt Rodda Labour Conservative 3,749

The MCB considers these 13 seats to be “Medium-Impact”. There are two sets of criteria for such seats. Either the margin of victory is small (>5000) but Muslim population is not big enough for it to be “High impact” but still material e.g. >1000 estimated Muslim voters and this is > 2x margin of victory). Or the margin of victory is relatively small (<10,000) and the Muslim population is large (> 5%) and greater than the margin of victory. Continued from page 14

% of voting age Estimated Total size Constituency constituents number of eligible Muslim electorate of 2017 name who are Muslim Muslim voters* vs. margin electorate (June 2018) (June 2018)

Southampton, 71,722 2% 1,245 40.2x Itchen

Canterbury 78,182 1% 1,055 5.6x

Glasgow North 59,931 3% 1,010 4.2x East

Thurrock 78,154 2% 1,244 3.6x

Stoke-On-Trent 66,057 3% 1,358 2.0x South

Chingford and 65,958 8% 4,032 1.7x Woodford Green

Crawley 73,425 6% 3,490 1.4x 15

Glasgow South 69,126 6% 2,820 1.4x

Enfield, 65,210 10% 5,912 1.4x Southgate

Bolton North East 67,233 9% 4,724 1.2x

Wolverhampton 59,971 5% 2,709 1.2x South West

Halifax 71,224 10% 5,709 1.1x

Reading East 75,537 6% 3,927 1.0x

*Estimate based on assuming proportion of Muslim voters equivalent to proportion of broader electorate. British Muslims in our Democracy and Public Life

With the UK going through unprecedented levels of change, this election is a chance to build a more inclusive society whose shared values are shaped through the participation of all people.

This General Election is extremely im- and undermine Muslims, like the claim portant not just for Muslims, but for that the Pakistani community (often the wider society in responding to the used as a proxy for Muslims) “votes changing face of Britain. As members en bloc as directed by Imams”.4 Such of British society, Muslims are as in- claims have proven to be false, with the vested in the way the country is run Government’s own analysis confirm- and how it prospers as anyone else. ing that “minorities are not a bloc vote that automatically supports Labour ir- Muslims are also affected by govern- respective of Labour’s performance”.5 ment just like everyone else, though there are many policies which impact The Muslim Council of Britain contin- 16 Muslims disproportionately compared ues to support local efforts to engage to other faith groups. In some instances, and participate in the political process this impact is by virtue of many Muslims and urges affiliates and other bodies to being in low socio-economic groups, work to encourage British Muslims to thus making them more likely to be af- vote at the next election, particularly fected by changes to austerity meas- young people and women. ures and social security. Other policies, however, impact Muslims more explic- The MCB urges leaders to be par- itly because they are Muslim – from ticularly vigilant against attempts to national security measures to policies disenfranchise Muslims. Recent ef- around Islamic finance. forts to smear Muslims in elections have been entirely unacceptable.6 The Muslims are not a homogeneous com- discrimination against Muslims and a munity. Muslims, as well as being ethni- call for the denial of their democratic cally diverse, also come from a number rights is fundamentally opposed to of socio-economic groups and profes- British values and should be explic- sions, and do not all affiliate with one itly condemned by all political parties. particular political party. Muslims vote Such interventions are deeply harm- for different reasons like all voters. Un- ful to community relations, particularly fortunately there have been claims to during General Elections when tensions the contrary that only seek to stigmatise can already be heightened. Political Participation and For political parties, this election Engagement should be seen as an opportunity to The 2017 General Election delivered a properly engage with Muslim commu- record number of Muslim MPs in the nities across the UK. During the next House of Commons, with 12 Labour few weeks, hustings will be organised MPs and 3 Conservative MPs. This only by various mosques and Islamic asso- constituted 2% of Parliamentarians, ciations: the MCB urges prospective even though the UK’s Muslim popula- parliamentary candidates and political tion stands at 5%.7 parties to participate and engage with their local Muslim communities. Muslim communities are not only underrepresented in politics, but in Finally, as the political debate heats up many other areas of public life. This during the election campaign, the MCB leads to a perception, and unfortu- urges all political parties to avoid hate- nately reality, of disenfranchisement. ful and divisive rhetoric. All voters, in- There is also significant underrep- cluding British Muslims, will be looking resentation of women in leadership for leadership that sets out a positive roles, both within British Muslim com- vision for a fairer Britain. munities and society at large. Whilst Muslim communities must continue working to increase women’s involvement in Muslim organisations, p olitical Recommendations 17 parties should also take concrete steps to encourage Muslims, and particularly • Lower the voting age for Muslim women, to join political parties parliamentary elections to 16. and seek selection in local, regional and parliamentary elections. • Develop stronger links with Muslim groups within polit- In addition, political parties should ical parties and encourage develop stronger links with their re- Muslims, and particularly spective internal Muslim affiliates. This Muslim women, to seek would also help them to understand the election. needs of and strengthen relationships with the British Muslim population. • Avoid divisive politics that panders to the far-right and The UK has an ageing electorate, mean- resorts to scapegoating any ing young people are significantly out- group in general political numbered, resulting in an inbuilt bias discourse. against governments who plan for the future. To counter this democratic im- balance the MCB supports the call to lower the voting age in parliamentary elections from 18 to 16. 18 19

British Muslim Perspectives at the 2019 General Election 20 Strengthening and Celebrating a Multifaith and Multicultural Society

Britain rightly prides itself as a nation that is inclusive of all faiths and cultures and accommodates those who wish to practice their faith. Enhancing pluralism and empowering a society rich in faith and cultural diversity will help to create a forward looking Britain.

Britain as a Community of communities in more deprived areas Communities of the UK voted to leave the European Since the 2016 referendum on Euro- Union. These barriers include the lack pean Union membership, Britain has of opportunities, discrimination and the been seen to become increasingly di- disproportionate impact of austerity on vided. Whatever the Brexit outcome, minority communities. the next government must look at ways in which to mend the rift in society that appears to have been primarily caused The Religious Life of 21 by the Brexit debate. The next govern- Muslims in Britain ment should work proactively with all Since the atrocities of 9/11, 7/7 and communities to better understand their the multiple terrorist attacks in 2017, needs, and it is essential that the next the religious life of Muslims in the UK government positively engages with has increasingly been called into ques- wider Muslim communities. Deeper tion. Whether it is having the freedom community relations are vital in de- to wear religious clothing, obtain halal veloping a more united, cohesive and food or access religiously mandated ar- stronger nation. Improving these rela- bitration panels, the religiosity of Mus- tions between those of faith and those lims is increasingly being presented as of no faith helps develop mutual under- being incompatible with the oft cited standing and strengthens communities. “British values”.

A focus on community cohesion must Many British Muslims reject such no- be prioritised, but an important part tions, as Islam enables Muslims to of the work required to achieve this make a positive contribution to British is through addressing the underlying society. Attempts to curtail religious causes of inequality. Inequality can be obligations go against the British values seen as a significant barrier to integra- citizens are supposed to champion. tion, and one of the reasons why many Animal welfare is at the heart of religious service well attended congregations slaughter and those genuinely in and often open seven days a week. favour of animal welfare should apply their standards across the board. The The recent rise of far-right extremism next government should defend the in Britain, and the horrific terrorist rights of Muslims and Jews to practice attack on two mosques in New Zealand slaughtering according to religious in March 2019 has meant that it is now guidelines of Halal and Kosher respec- more important than ever that the tively, and oppose the stigmatisation security of our mosques and Muslim of religious minorities through pejora- institutions is maintained, especially tive labelling. during busy periods like Ramadan and Friday prayers. Following the attack in When it comes to ‘Shari’ah courts’ or ar- New Zealand, the UK Government an- bitration panels, it is important to realise nounced additional funding and a wid- that for those who choose them, they ening of the scope for the Places of provide a valuable service for dispute Worship Protective Security Scheme, resolution, as do religiously-mandated which was welcomed by many Muslim forums in other faiths. communities across Britain.

The Muslim Council of Britain rejects The UK Government provides £14 million notions that Muslims want ‘parallel for the security of synagogues, schools 22 legal systems’ or even a ‘Shari’ah state’. and other Jewish centres.8 The next They must certainly operate within the government should make available law of this land, and Muslim communi- a proportionate level of funding for ties must work together to ensure the all faith communities with similar services offered are of a high standard flexibility in its usage, engaging with in modern Britain. mainstream Muslim organisations to ensure this is communicated to hard- to-reach communities, and to reassure Places of Worship and safeguard those communities. Places of worship and religious institu- Furthermore, funding to local police tions are a key part of the day-to-day forces that can provide this level of sup- lives of many Muslims. With Britain pro- port should be increased. moting the freedom to practice religion, ensuring the safety of visitors and wor- The overall Places of Worship Protective shippers must be strengthened. Security Scheme should be marketed and publicised to the widest range of Mosques are a central feature of many places of worship, to allow all institu- Muslim communities, providing religious, tions to access this support. The fund cultural and social services – from size should be reviewed in-line with Friday prayers and religious classes to the proportionality of the risks faced recreational activities. Britain is home by faith communities, based on the to an estimated 1,700 mosques, which latest hate crime data. Following consultation with a wide The Voluntary Sector range of Muslim organisations both Faith-based voluntary organisations within and without their memberships form a valuable and, in some cases, in- for their views on issues of safety and dispensable part of the Third Sector. security for mosques in the UK, the British Muslims are heavily involved in Muslim Council of Britain has produced volunteer work, with latest polling sug- a list of recommendations for the Home gesting that Muslims give more in char- Office to improve the Places of Worship ity than any other faith or non-faith Protective Security Scheme.9 group.10 The Muslim Charities Forum estimates that Muslims in Britain give For the implementation of physical an estimated £100million to charities in safety measures, places of worship Ramadan alone.11 should have the choice of selecting from a pool of approved contractors to Over the last decade however, the perform the installation work, with the Muslim voluntary sector has faced sig- next government promoting an open nificant pressure from what is perceived and transparent scheme. Where places to be a politicised Charity Commis- of worship feel particularly vulnera- sion. Though only 4.8% of charities ble to hate crime, local police and fire in the UK are Muslim charities,12 38% rescue services should be supported to of all disclosed investigations by the deliver adequate and tailored training, Charity Commission initiated between for example, via a dedicated outreach January 2013 and April 2014 were 23 officer in each region who understands against Muslim charities.13 the dynamics of local places of worship. Furthermore, Muslim charities have However, the next government must found significant issues in accessing fi- also work closely with communities nancial services, due to banks de-risk- to avoid the over-securitisation of ing. This includes systematically closing mosques and ensure that there is a or freezing accounts of charities, often balance between security requirements without warning. This tends to be in re- and continued openness and sponse to governmental pressure to hospitality. Regular consultation at the crack down on any potential of money grassroots level directly with commu- laundering or other illegal activities. nities and institutions is central to this, Muslim charities are disproportion- and consultation should not be limited ately vulnerable to banks considering at purely a national level. The Places of them to be higher risk because of their Worship Protective Security Scheme work in countries like Syria, Yemen is only available in England and Wales. and Somalia. For many charities, Therefore, a review should be under- such action by a bank often results in taken as a matter of urgency to ad- damning and long-lasting reputational dress the vulnerability to hate crime damage, as well as severely impacting of places of worship in Scotland and humanitarian work being carried out on Northern Ireland. the ground. The impact of this is particularly per- Visit My Mosque Day tinent on smaller charities, which are Visit My Mosque Day is a national initi- often forced to pool resources and rely ative facilitated by the MCB, which en- on the efforts of voluntary staff to re- courages over 250 mosques across the trieve access to accounts. Not only UK to hold an open day to welcome does this implicit discrimination cause in their neighbours from all faiths and extra work for charities to overcome none. This initiative is an important way the additional barriers faced, but also of building bridges across communities prevents critical financial aid to some of and of creating opportunities to tackle the most deprived places in the world. negative stereotypes.

This adds to a double bind where Islam is the second largest faith group Muslim charities are unable to benefit in the UK with over 1,700 mosques because of religious and conscientious (compared to circa 40,000 churches barriers to accepting lottery funding; nationwide). With almost 90% of Brit- and, as faith-based organisations, are ons having never visited a mosque,14 not eligible for government funding the Visit My Mosque campaign, organ- because of the absence of a race ele- ised by local Muslim communities, is ment in their work. It is essential that more important than ever in enabling such bodies have greater access to members of the public to meet their alternative and equivalent funding. local Muslim neighbours face-to-face. 24 The MCB’s British Muslims in Numbers Having started in February 2015 with report detailed a number of ways in 20 mosques, popular demand has which Muslim civil society needs to de- led the initiative to expand to over velop capacity and programmes to 250 participating mosques nationwide address social realities including lone- in 2019. This has included visits from liness, elderly care, homelessness and notable figures, including the Prime the high Muslim prison population. The Minister, Leader of the Opposition and next government can help to ensure the Mayors of London and the West the Muslim voluntary sector has equal Midlands. access to funding to address these issues. The next government should show its support for campaigns like Visit My Mosque Day by encouraging minis- ters and MPs to take part. Other places of worship should be encouraged to find ways to open their doors and their hearts to people of all faiths and none, in order that a tolerant, peaceful and in- tegrated Britain is built. Recommendations

• Proactively engage with a broad and representative spectrum of British Muslim communities to ensure a plurality of views are being considered.

• Defend the right of Muslims – and people of all faiths – to express their faith, be that in religious clothing, food and reasonable accommodation of religious observance.

•Uphold the rights of Muslims and Jews to practice slaughtering according to religious guidelines.

• Support and fund security measures for faith communities and faith institutions.

•Review the size of the security fund in-line with the proportionality of the risks faced by faith communities. 25 •Avoid the over-securitisation of mosques and ensure a balance between security requirements and continued openness and hospitality.

• Review the vulnerability to hate crime of places of w orship in Scotland and Northern Ireland.

•Facilitate equal access to government funding for the Muslim voluntary sector to tackle social issues.

• Support campaigns like Visit My Mosque Day and work with other places of worship to find ways to open doors to their communities. 26 Islamophobia

Britain rightly prides itself as a nation that is inclusive of all religions and accommodates those who wish to practice their faith. However, enhancements to the quality of our pluralism are undermined by attacks, both on religiosity and religion, and outright religious hatred and discrimination.

Defining Islamophobia This definition allows a clear demarca- Muslim civil society has long been alert tion between unacceptable racist-like to racism, bigotry and discrimination “othering” expressions of Muslimness against Muslims in its various or perceived Muslimness, and criti- manifes-tations. Three in five cal discourse on the religion of Islam Muslims believe there is more and Muslims which is part of healthy prejudice against Muslims than other debate. A definition of Islamophobia is religious groups, a perception that is instrumental to the political will and in- especially widespread among young stitutional determination to tackle it. Muslims and graduates,15 and 70% of Muslims have reported that they have This definition has now been endorsed experienced religion-based prejudice and accepted by a cross section of 27 in the last year.16 Muslims, civil society, academics, political parties and councils. Regretta- Islamophobia is still seen as an bly, this definition was rejected by the accept-able form of prejudice, last government, despite this definition demonstrated by many surveys having been endorsed by the Muslim including a YouGov poll which communities that face Islamophobia. highlighted that 37% of the British An overwhelming majority (88%) of public admitted they would be respondents to the Muslim Council of more likely to support policies to Britain’s survey of its affiliates ahead of reduce the number of Muslims in Brit- this General Election were in favour of ain.17 Whilst the term ‘Islamophobia’ the UK Government adopting this spe- has been used for decades, a formal, cific definition. government-recognised definition of Islamophobia does not exist. In It is imperative that the next govern- 2018, the All-Party Parliamentary ment formally adopts the proposed Group on British Muslims, through definition of Islamophobia as the first extensive con-sultation, developed a concrete step towards tackling this definition of Islamophobia: form of prejudice and discrimination, which would positively impact “Islamophobia is rooted in racism upon British Muslim communities and and is a type of racism that targets reduce feelings of disenfranchisement. expressions of Muslimness or perceived Muslimness.” Islamophobia in Political Despite committing to an independent Parties inquiry into Islamophobia in the Con- There has been a disturbing and dan- servative Party during the Conserva- gerous rise in Islamophobic incidents tive Party leadership election,22 Prime and support of anti-Muslim sentiments Minister Boris Johnson has since re- within political parties. The MCB has neged on this commitment, instead been closely documenting such in- holding a broad inquiry into preju- stances and reporting these to respec- dice and discrimination in the party.23 tive political parties. This is not an issue Though an inquiry is needed to look at that is confined to a single political party, different types of prejudice across the but has unfortunately been found across party, Islamophobia appears to be so the board, though it is more widespread entrenched that a standalone inquiry is in some parties than others. essential to begin to tackle the problem. The MCB continues to call for this The MCB has raised highlighted issues inquiry, and strongly condemns the with Islamophobia in the Conservative Party over its failure to address this Party, Labour Party, Liberal Democrats, issue, despite widespread condemna- Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), Change tion, both internally and externally. UK, UK Independence Party (UKIP) and the Brexit Party. This includes Labour’s All political parties must investigate former Communities Secretary claim- thoroughly and independently the 28 ing that going to the mosque five times issues of Islamophobia within their a day is a sign of extremism,18 a Liberal parties, and ensure that internal party Democrat council candidate claiming processes for dealing with disciplinary Islamophobia “is not real”,19 and UKIP’s issues are fit for purpose. former leader calling Islam a “death cult” and appointing the former EDL leader, Stephen Yaxley-Lennon as an “advisor” Reporting Hate Crime on grooming gangs and prisons.20 Since the 2016 referendum on European Union membership, there has been a Islamophobia in the Conservative Party rise in the following of far-right ideolo- appears to be systemic and institu- gies as a result of some political parties tional, with anti-Muslim sentiments seen encouraging anti-immigrant and an- at every level in the party, including: the ti-Muslim sentiments, leading to an in- Prime Minister Boris Johnson, members creasingly divided society. of the Cabinet, the London Mayoral candidate in 2016, MPs, councillors and Religious hate crime rose by 40% be- ordinary party members. The MCB has tween 2017-18 across England and Wales extensively documented the problem to the highest levels ever recorded,24 with in the Conservative Party because of data from the Home Office showing that its prevalence and because it has been more than half of religiously-motivated the party of government for almost a attacks were directed at Muslims.25 decade.21 Actual figures are likely to be much higher, given some are categorised as Analysis conducted by the CfMM racist rather than religiously motivated, between October and December 2018 and also because there is significant un- found 59% of all articles analysed der-reporting within Muslim communi- associated Muslims with negative be- ties both to the police and to third-party haviours, over one-third of all articles monitoring agencies of Islamophobic misrepresented or generalised about hate crime. This is partially due to a trust Muslims, and 43% of all broadcast clips deficit between the police and Muslim associated Muslims with negative be- communities, which is not easily recov- havior. Terrorism was the most recurring erable. The next government should theme in reports relating to Muslims and work within faith communities to un- Islam.29 The way the media reports on derstand the barriers to reporting hate Muslims and Islam affects many Muslims crime and the culture of mistrust of the in their day to day lives. police and government institutions, and work with faith and cultural com- By building an evidence base, CfMM is munities to overcome these barriers. able to share areas of concern with the media, regulators, policy makers and politicians, as well as suggest ways for- Impact of the Media ward. The next government must work The majority of Britons polled believe with the media and civil society to “the media” is to blame for the preju- encourage more responsible reporting dice Muslims face in daily life in Britain. 26 by journalists, and improvement in 29 Indeed, the MCB’s polling of British Mus- the standards of journalism when it lims also found 74% of respondents iden- comes to reporting on issues involving tified the media portrayal of Muslims as Muslims – and religion in general – and the most important issue affecting Is- the tackling of unconscious bias. With lamophobia. University of Cambridge/ this, the MCB hopes to see improve- ESRC Roundtable research has also ments in the perception of Muslims in concluded that mainstream media re- wider society. porting about Muslim communities is contributing to an atmosphere of rising The Leveson Inquiry, launched in the hostility towards Muslims in Britain.27 wake of the phone hacking scandal, Since 2006, academics have observed sought to examine the culture, practice how media coverage on a global level and ethics of the press. The first phase has represented Muslims as underdevel- of the inquiry was completed, but in oped, illiterate, homeless and orchestra- light of the press’s failure to engage in tors of failed states.28 effective self-regulation,the next government should ensure that the second The Centre for Media Monitoring part of the Leveson Inquiry is initiated (CfMM), a project of the MCB, has been as soon as possible and that Section set up to improve the quality of report- 40 of the Crime and Courts Act 2013 is ing of Islam and Muslims in the media speedily implemented. through constructive engagement. Eradicating Racism Furthermore, it appears the Govern- Britain should be a society free from all ment is yet to initiate any programme forms of racism, such as Islamophobia of work to meet its objective to assess and anti-Semitism. Given the scale and the level of anti-Muslim bullying in growth of Islamophobia in the UK, the schools, despite this being a prevalent MCB believes the next government issue amongst young people. In 2017, should create a position for an 4,509 students were excluded from Independent Islamophobia Advisor schools in England, either on a fixed or to mirror the newly created permanent basis, for racist bullying.31 Independent anti-Semitism Advisor. Children as young as nine are contact- ing Childline about race or faith-based Many Muslim communities also bullying, with Childline conducting belong to different ethnic more than 2,500 counselling sessions communities, including Asian, African, for Muslim, Jewish, Christian, Black and African-Caribbean, Arab, and others. Sikh children in the last three years.32 Since the referendum on European Union membership, 71% of people A better approach to promote integra- from ethnic minorities report having tion through mutual understanding and faced racial discrimination.30 The next respect should be developed across government must review current the board, particularly in schools, to legislation to ensure that all forms of help tackle the problem of stigmati- 30 prejudice are put on an equal footing sation and mistrust among different with equal protection under the law. communities in Britain. This should take place through policies and cam- Government, civil society and individuals paigns that aim to bring people of dif- must be committed to tackling the ferent backgrounds, race and status problem of racism faced by ethnic mi- together to deal with issues of mutual norities. The Government’s Hate Crime interest like homelessness, poverty Action Plan (2016) has many important and domestic and community vio- initiatives, but the progress report in lence. The MCB’s report on integration, 2018 demonstrates a serious failure in Our Shared B ritish Future, provides in- tackling Islamophobia in the same way depth recommendations on improving as other forms of racism. community cohesion in the UK.

Some progress has been made on initia- The next government should lead by ex- tives like tackling hatred against young ample and seek to tackle racism, preju- people and educating young people as dice and discrimination within political to what constitutes hate crime. On these parties and the public sector. Efforts initiatives, the Government has explic- should be made towards making it itly engaged a number of faith commu- easier for people to safely report nities but has either failed to or failed to instances of discrimination and racism confirm engagement with Muslim com- at work, in schools, and in different munities on any of this work. civic institutions. Recommendations

• Adopt the definition of Islamophobia, as proposed by the APPG on British Muslims, as the first step towards tackling this form of prejudice and discrimination.

• Investigate instances of Islamophobia within political parties thoroughly and independently, and ensure internal party processes on disciplinary issues are effective.

• Fund campaigns to increase the reporting of all crime, and specifically Islamophobic hate crime, as well as its impact on making communities safer.

• Work with faith and cultural communities to understand and tackle the barriers to reporting hate crime and the culture of mistrust of the police and government institutions.

• Encourage more responsible reporting by journalists through working with the media and civil society to 31 improve the standards of journalism when it comes to reporting on issues involving Muslims and religion in general.

• Commence the second part of the Leveson Inquiry and implement Section 40 of the Crime and Courts Act 2013.

• Establish an Independent Islamophobia Advsior with funding for an organisation focused on tackling Islamo- phobia, to mirror the Independent anti-Semitism Advisor.

• Review current legislation to ensure that all forms of prejudice are put on an equal footing with equal protection under the law.

• Simplify the process for people to safely report instances of discrimination and racism at work, in schools and in civic institutions. Economy

While British Muslims make significant contributions to the UK economy through employment and entrepreneurship, there are still many structural socio-economic barriers that prevent Muslims and BAME communities from fulfilling their potential in society.

Muslims contribute hugely to Britain’s Employment economic vitality, from the thousands Unemployment is a critical issue for of Muslim owned businesses across the British Muslim communities. While there UK, to the number of successful British are pockets of prosperity, the unem- Muslim entrepreneurs and the require- ployment rate among Muslims is more ments of the Muslim faith of creat- than twice that of the general popula- ing new drivers for growth, like in the tion (12.8% compared to 5.4%), and 41% British halal industry. The report by are economically inactive, compared to the Muslim Council of Britain into the 21.8% of the general population. Brit- impact of Muslims on the economy, ish Muslims also experience the lowest The Muslim Pound, highlighted the Brit- earnings of any religious group, earn- 32 ish Muslim spending power in 2007 ing £350 less each month than the UK to be at £20.5 billion, which would be average.34 The MCB supports the crea- equivalent to £28.2 billion in 2019 if ad- tion of the National Living Wage and the justed for inflation (CPI index). recent announcement to increase this to tackle wage stagnation and reduce Whilst there are many examples of the burden of debt on individuals. Muslims flourishing economically, public policy can have huge negative impacts With 89% of Muslims identifying them- on Muslim communities. The Govern- selves as being from a non-White ment’s Race and Disparity Audit in 2018 census ethnic category (2011 Census), confirmed that there are disparities it is vital to consider the economic dis- between ethnic groups in all areas of advantages and barriers facing those life affected by public organisations.33 from BAME backgrounds in particular. The next government should ensure Muslim immigrants who came to the all fiscal policy should be subject to UK decades ago started at the bottom an equality impact analysis before of the social ladder, but many still implementation. This would serve to remain there and belong to the most stop policies being implemented that deprived economic and social groups disadvantage particular sections of so- in the country. With almost half of all ciety, particularly Muslim, BAME com- Muslims (46%) living in the 10 most de- munities and women who already face prived areas in England,35 Muslims are socio-economic challenges. significantly impacted by the structural disadvantages of living in areas with public sector organisations with Muslim high rates of poverty. This includes faith schools to facilitate exposure and higher crime rates, overburdened social opportunities in the public sector. services and comparatively worse educational institutions which serve The next government should look to to propagate structural disadvantages equip individuals (especially young onto the next generation. people) with the skills necessary to compete effectively in a skills-based Evidence has shown that ethnic economy and labour market. In addi- minority job applicants have to send, on tion, employers should be encouraged average, 60% more job applications to to trial name-blank applications and get a positive response from employers tackle unconscious bias. compared to their white counterparts.36 BAME job applicants often lack access Muslim women are more likely to to the sorts of advice, guidance and be economically inactive than other contacts to help them get into certain women, with employment prospects professions. often being hindered by a triple penalty of being women, being BAME Given the importance of protecting the and being Muslim. The next govern- rights of Muslims in work and given that ment should work with faith-based Muslims tend to be more vulnerable to and cultural communities to support discrimination in the work place, trade delivering specific national outreach 33 union membership should be pro- programmes to promote female role moted to Muslims and BAME commu- models within Muslim communities, nities. Support should be provided on and to provide mentoring and role how to get involved and the benefits modelling to help Muslim women over- of membership, including improving come barriers to employment. working conditions and providing more bargaining power for wages, should be The Department for Work and Pensions emphasised. should also integrate tailored peer-to- peer support into their back-to-work With the British Muslim population being packages. The take up of govern- younger than the overall population ment-funded free childcare should with a much greater proportion aged also be encouraged. The next govern- 15 and under, developing these skills ment should work with employers to and providing opportunities for young ensure workplaces make reasonable people would be particularly relevant adjustments to accommodate people for creating skilled employment in the of all faiths, including Muslims, to be future.37 This could include internships able to practice, in terms of providing and work experience schemes specif- a private prayer space, considering die- ically for particular faith groups and tary requirements and being conscious BAME candidates, or the partnering of of religious holidays. Workplace monitoring of ethnicity industry would allow Britain to en- needs to be expanded to include faith. hance its competitiveness and export This will help to ensure workplaces are its expertise. representative of the communities they serve, and that equal opportunity em- Islamic finance can also have a huge ployers are inclusive of faith at all levels positive impact on individuals. As it does of their organisations. The next govern- not rely on interest, the use of Islamic ment must ensure this drive is led by finance options over mainstream loans the public sector and extended to all mitigates the impact of interest rapidly workplaces. increasing debt. This can be particularly beneficial for Muslim homeowners if they pursue Islamic mortgages, given Islamic Finance mortgages are one of the largest and Muslims are also making contributions most common sources of debt. to the UK economy through the growing Islamic finance industry. The principles that underpin Islamic finance could Housing also have the potential of having uni- According to the MCB’s British Muslims versal appeal. Indeed, it is not neces- in Numbers report, 28% of Muslim sary for a customer to be Muslim to households live in social housing, com- benefit from these services. A number pared to 17% of overall households. 34 of landmarks in London have been ac- A disproportionately large propor- quired or developed with the benefit of tion of Muslims also find themselves in Islamic finance, including five govern- temporary accommodation. The MCB ment buildings on Whitehall.38 A grow- found social housing to be the second ing Islamic finance industry is likely to most important issue (59%) to British attract further inward investment from Muslims in terms of social security. economies in the Gulf and South East Asia that have significant Islamic fi- Based on 2011 census data, 35% of nance industries. Muslim households are overcrowded, lack at least one bedroom, and do not Further to the high-level support HM have central heating or have to share a Treasury has given the Islamic Finance kitchen or bathroom, compared to 13% sector, a commitment by the next of the total population. No other faith government to continue seeing the group has been found to have similar development of Islamic finance in the levels of deprivation.39 UK would be welcome. This could be through financial products, identifying A much smaller proportion of Muslim Islamic-compliant business activities households own their own property and supporting business growth in the outright compared to the overall pro- Muslim world. Building on the existing portion – 15% as compared to 31% over- excellence of Britain’s financial services all, with a much greater proportion of Muslims living in privately rented ac- disability-related benefits and the intro- commodation – 30% of Muslim house- duction of an intensified conditionality. holds as compared to 18% overall. This could be, in part, due to the interest There is little evidence to show the rate element of mortgages. Further exact impact these changes have had support for Islamic finance, and specif- specifically on Muslims, but evidence ically Islamic mortgages, could encour- does show that a number of reforms age more home ownership amongst have had a disproportionate impact some groups of Muslims. on ethnic minority households. Black households, in particular, have experi- The availability of affordable housing is enced average losses of around 5% of of shared concern for those on low in- net income, and Asian households have comes. The reasons for the low take-up also experienced large reductions in of the ‘right to buy’ option amongst net incomes because they are already Muslims should be investigated, for ex- poorer on average. ample to see whether the avoidance of conventional mortgage-based house Whilst the Government did con- purchase is an issue. duct an equality impact analysis, which estimated that 40% of affected There is a real demand for more households would contain someone affordable houses to be made from an ethnic minority group,40 this available, especially in deprived areas. acknowledgement needs to lead to 35 When deeming housing to be afforda- action to ensure policies do not dispro- ble, consideration should be given to portionately impact any specific group, the average income of the local pop- and do not lead to greater levels of ulation to ensure homes are truly poverty. affordable for the people they are built for. The introduction of government One specific UK Government welfare schemes encouraging and providing policy impacts Muslim communities those from low income backgrounds more than any other faith community: with the opportunity to get onto the the two-child limit on support provided property ladder would be welcome. to families – whether through tax cred- its, Housing Benefit or Universal Credit. Subsequent children are no longer enti- Welfare tled to the “child element”, worth up to Since 2010, the UK has undergone signif- £2,780 per child per year.41 icant changes to the welfare system as a result of austerity measures introduced This impacts Muslims more than any by successive governments. Some of other faith group for two key reasons: these changes include the introduction poverty levels among Muslims are high, of Universal Credit, changes to assess- and more Muslim children live in fam- ment and entitlement to incapacity and ilies with three or more dependent children than any other faith group since 2010, with few signs that show the (60%).42 This policy was introduced burden is lessening. The UK’s biggest with the intention to encourage fami- food bank network, the Trussell Trust, lies to take financial means into consid- gave 1.6 million packs of food sup- eration when family planning. With low plies in 2018, which was more than ever levels of awareness and understand- before and represented a 19% annual ing of this policy – both among Muslim increase on the previous year. Social communities and wider communities – security, be it due to benefit delays or families tend to be faced to deal with changes to benefits, was cited as the reduced financial support once a child main reason for food bank use (38%).43 is already born. Whilst there are no specific statistics pointing to food poverty levels among With this policy, it is ultimately chil- Muslims, its prevalence among society, dren who have to bear the brunt. With particularly in urban areas and among squeezed finances, families have to low socio-economic groups, indicates make significant sacrifices, which can the extent of its impact on Muslims. include keeping less healthy diets, reducing activities for children, both par- The next government must ensure ents working long hours leading to less the welfare system is always geared time spent with children. These factors towards improving living standards, can put additional strains on family re- alleviating poverty, and helping those 36 lationships and lead to an increase most in need. in mental health problems. The next government must stop the implementation of the two-child limit and fully consider the implication this has on poverty levels and the quality of life for children.

In surveying its affiliates, the MCB found the most important issue con- cerning welfare and social security was food poverty (66%). Food poverty in the UK has become a significant issue Recommendations

• Undertake equality impact analyses on all proposed fiscal policy measures to ensure no section of society is discriminated against.

• Tackle the high rate of unemployment amongst Muslims, taking into consideration the economic barriers faced by those from BAME backgrounds.

• Develop programmes to equip individuals, particularly young people, with the skills necessary to compete effectively in a skills-based economy and labour market.

• Encourage employers to trial name-blank applications and tackle unconscious bias.

• Work with faith-based and cultural communities to support delivering specific national outreach programmes to promote female role models within Muslim communities and thereby help Muslim women in over- coming barriers to employment. 37 • Stop the implementation of the two-child limit on support provided to families.

• Expand workplace monitoring of ethnicity to include faith in order to ensure that workplaces are representative of the communities they serve.

• Develop Islamic finance in the UK to build on the existing excellence of Britain’s financial services and enhance its competitiveness.

• Introduce schemes to provide those from low income backgrounds with the opportunity to get onto the property ladder.

• Gear the welfare system towards improving living standards, alleviating poverty and helping those most in need. 38 The United Kingdom and the European Union

There was no clear ‘Muslim vote’ in the referendum on European Union membership. Different Muslim communities will be impacted by leaving the European Union, just as in wider society.

Muslims were motivated by numerous responsible dialogue, one that seeks to factors when voting on European Union heal divisions and does not scapegoat membership, from immigration and the minorities. It is also imperative that impact of globalisation, to security co- steps are taken to mitigate any nega- operation and educational opportu- tive effects on vulnerablecommunities nities. As Britain prepares for Brexit, of Brexit. all political leaders must engage in The Referendum Deal or No Deal Since the 2016 referendum on European It is increasingly likely that the UK will Union membership, British society has not leave the European Union without a become increasingly divided. This has negotiated deal, though not enough re- been fuelled by a rise in the following of search has been conducted to under- far-right ideologies as a result of some stand the impact of the various Brexit political parties encouraging anti-immi- options on different sections of society, grant and anti-Muslim sentiments, and particularly Muslims. It is evident that tenuously linking this with European any form of leaving the European Union, membership. whether with a negotiated deal or with no deal, will have a negative impact on In the referendum, it is estimated that poorer households, and with 46% of 70% of Muslims voted for Remain.44 Muslims living in the 10 most deprived This can, in part, be put down to the areas in England, it is clear that the Leave campaign pledging to reduce financial impact of Brexit will dispropor- migration and playing on Islamophobia tionately be felt by poorer sections of by conflating free movement with flows British society.46 of refugees from the Middle East and sparking fears of Turkey joining the EU. A no deal Brexit is believed to be much Research by HOPE not Hate into why more detrimental for vulnerable and people voted to leave the European lower income groups – and by extension, Union found people frequently merg- many BAME and Muslim communities. A 39 ing support on controls over immigra- large number of ethnic minority groups tion with anti-Muslim prejudice. are in low paid work, spend a large proportion of their income on rent and have For the sizable proportion of British very little disposable income for meals Muslims who voted to leave, research and other goods. With a no deal Brexit has not identified one clear reason. expected to increase food prices, it is For some, immigration may have been therefore likely to have a much larger a driver. Whilst some people held con- impact on ethnic minority families with cerns over the rate of immigration from lower incomes. the European Economic Area, others felt that by restricting European freedom of A no deal Brexit would also mean that movement, this would give more oppor- manual workers would be particularly tunities, or at least level out the playing vulnerable to job losses in the face field, for immigration from other coun- of rising production costs, increased tries. Others in Muslim communities, like global competition and greater tar- so many in wider society, decided to iffs on exports. British Pakistani and vote to leave the European Union based Bangladeshi men are twice as likely on proposals for more money available as White British men to work in these to the NHS and public services.45 sectors, and are less likely to have skills transferable to other sectors,47 so become much more prone to job and the Democratic Unionist Party losses as a result of leaving the Euro- (DUP), affiliates of the MCB overwhelm- pean Union without a negotiated Brexit ingly supported this (77%). deal. Polling by HOPE not Hate suggests that The next government must conduct BAME leave voters are among the most equality impact analyses on all potential likely to have changed their minds on Brexit outcomes to understand the full Brexit, especially Muslims. For example, extent of its impact on various sec- in a 2018 poll, only 27% of those of Pa- tions of society. Extra consideration kistani heritage who voted to leave the should be given to the impact of any European Union said they would vote outcome on sections of society which the same way if there was a referen- are already disadvantaged, including dum today.48 The expectation is that faith minorities, BAME communities, this is the case for a number of minor- and low socio-economic groups. ity communities.

The issue of European Union member- Shifting Opinions ship is not one which will be resolved The Muslim Council of Britain, in its sur- any time soon. The next government veying of affiliates and wider Muslim should ensure that the public is kept communities ahead of this General informed of the next government’s 40 Election, found that respondents over- plans, and the impact these plans will whelmingly back remaining in the have on specific sections of society, as European Union (77%). When it comes well as society as a whole. Engagement to leaving the European Union, 8% with the public is essential to ensure prefer to leave in line with the initial ref- informed decision making by the elec- erendum result, 5% on the deal negoti- torate in the upcoming General Election, ated by Theresa May, and 2% without a and any potential further referendum deal. Almost 8% of respondents were on European Union membership. still unsure of their preferred Brexit outcome. This is not exhaustive polling of Muslim communities, and only shows a snapshot of the opinion of respondents who are British Muslims.

When asked about whether another referendum should be held on European Union membership, which is the policy of every political party in the House of C ommons, except the Conservatives Recommendations

• Stamp out divisive rhetoric which was widely used during the referendum on European Union membership from the debate.

• Consider the impact of the language used in the Brexit debate on community relations.

• Conduct equality impact analyses on all potential Brexit outcomes to understand the full extent of the impact of any decision on various sections of society.

• Keep the public informed of the next government’s plans, and the impact of these plans on specific sections of society, and society as a whole.

41 42 Education

The 2011 Census shows that 329,684 Muslims are in full time education, with 8.1% of all school aged children being Muslim. Education is both a national and a British Muslim priority.

The education system in Britain must forward within our society. Religious be of a standard to empower all stu- Education can help foster greater un- dents to reach their full potential. derstanding and sensitivity between Education provision should cater to the individuals and communities and can needs of all children, ensuring equal- help to combat prejudice and racism. ity and facilitating the religious lives of Muslim students, and students of other The curriculum should include the con- faiths. Given statistics are available at tribution of different faiths andc ultures ethnicity level, looking at the significant to British history, for example the impact academic progress of British Pakistani of the British Empire and colonialization and Bangladeshi students will cover on other countries around the world, c.70% of Muslim students. By 2013, and the efforts ofC ommonwealth coun- British Bangladeshi students achieved tries to assist Britain in the World Wars. 43 above the White British average, de- It is also imperative that the atrocities spite British Bangladeshi students at Srebrenica are included as part of being one of the most socio-economi- the National History Curriculum. This cally deprived communities in England. would educate students on this geno- In addition, British Pakistani pupils cide, which had a significant impact on have improved substantially, having many young British Muslims and help achieved parity with White British stu- to teach all young people to remain dents in 2011 on attaining five or more vigilant and to challenge hatred and in- A*-C grades at GCSE level.49 tolerance wherever it is found. This will help counter discrimination and build stronger community relations. Curriculum An inclusive National Curriculum should The next government should continue reflect the diversity of communities in to support the teaching and existence the United Kingdom in terms of culture, of Religious Education as a priority ethnicity and belief. With the unfortu- subject, and to provide appropriate nate rise in hate crime against religious resources. The Department for Edu- minorities and Islamophobia, teaching cation should continue to consult reli- young people about different values, gious organisations when shaping the beliefs and cultures is essential to aid syllabus for the National Curriculum. social cohesion as young people go The introduction of a new statutory cur- related to relationship, sex and health riculum on Relationship and Sex Educa- education to their children – rather than tion (RSE) has caused concern among consider this a subject taught to their some parents who feel their beliefs children in schools only – and to ensure have not been taken into consideration. their children are empowered and feel comfortable discussing relationship, sex Schools must ensure all children are and health issues at home. taught about the importance of respect for one another’s beliefs and backgrounds, and care should be taken School Provision to ensure all children are made to feel At present, 1 in 3 schools in Britain are comfortable at school. Schools should faith schools, reflecting the cultural di- respect the religious background of versity of British society with signif- all pupils, which should be considered icantly less than 1% of these being when planning teaching, and recognise Muslim faith schools, according to the the natural right of parents to educate Department for Education.50 In 2019, their children in line with their values four Muslim schools were among the and beliefs. The next government must top 10 Progress 8 schools nationwide, ensure schools engage constructively making them the best schools in im- with concerned parents in the policy proving the progress pupils make be- making process. tween the end of primary school and 44 the end of secondary school.51 The MCB encourages parents to engage positively with the school policy making The assertion is made that they process, as the statutory guidance en- hinder integration, but the supporting shrines the rights for parents to have an evidence is not brought forward. The influence on the written RSE policy of next government should support the the school their children attend. Con- continuation of faith school provision cerned parents should read a copy of and develop a fair and transparent the school’s RSE policy and request to process that is representative of local speak to the RSE lead at the school, community needs when considering constructively feedback their views on applications for faith schools to be the contents of the policy, and consid- established. ering becoming a school governor, joining a Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) The politicisation of education must be or volunteering their professional skills avoided by ensuring that schools with to input into the school’s strategic di- Muslim-majority children are treated as rection and participate in the school’s equally as other faith schools, and not senior leadership team. unfairly scrutinised on the basis of un- founded suspicions. The “Trojan Horse” In addition, parents should take an active scandal involving claims of an alleged involvement in the teaching of topics conspiracy that there was an organised attempt by some individuals to take those otherwise unable to afford fur- over schools in Birmingham has been ther education to access it. shown to be a ‘fake Islamic’ plot. To prevent such incidents occurring again, Tuition fees for domestic students the next government should review were trebled in 2012, and maintenance with Ofsted how to develop a more in- grants have been replaced with loans. formed approach to school inspections, University tuition fees are problematic one that does not conflate religious to most students, and the high levels conservativism with extremism. of graduate debt can play a significant part in influencing the decision to British Muslim parents should be en- go to university for those from low so- couraged to participate in their child’s cio-economic backgrounds. Given the education and in school governance majority of Muslims are from low so- structures to promote the local pro- cio-economic backgrounds, the cost portional representation of communi- of university, coupled with the lack of ties on school boards. Local provisions, Shari’ah compliant student loans can through a local authority governing act as a deterrent for many Muslims body unit, for training on governance, from going to university. Reducing the alongside the establishment of govern- cost of university by reconsidering the ance standards would go a long way levels of tuition fees and reviewing the towards promoting diversity. impact this has on accessing higher education may help to encourage more 45 Muslims to consider going to university. Access to Education Over a quarter of the Muslim popula- 70% of Pakistani/Bangladeshi students, tion (26%) have no qualifications, which which make up the majority of British hinders employment opportunities Muslims, cited the Educational Mainte- and the ability to be active and inte- nance Allowance (EMA) as very impor- grated members of British society. tant in their decision to remain in full Government should promote lifetime education.52 The majority of these long learning to adults in all commu- are Muslim students living in deprived nities. There should be equal focus communities in Britain. It is important on both academic and vocational to reintroduce EMA in England and courses, with Further Education col- preserve it across the UK. There leges working with local communities should also be continued research on to identify demand and offer suita- the feasibility of introducing Shari’ah ble courses. Greater focus should be finance and other alternatives to given to adult education, allowing in- student loans for tuition fees. dividuals to re-skill which would improve social mobility and employment opportunities. This should be made free at the point of use to allow for Universities and Further work more collaboratively with the Education National Union of Students (NUS) to The 2011 national census showed there provide BAME officers within all stu- were 329,694 Muslims in full time edu- dent unions, as well as Muslim chaplain cation, 43% of which were women.53 positions for Muslim students facing difficulties. While 24% of the Muslim population aged 16 and above have a degree-level Student unions should develop, or and above qualification,54 there is still lobby for the development and pro- much more that can be done to en- motion of more inclusive activities for courage Muslims into higher education students. This could focus on sport, in- and address the barriers to accessing cluding women-only sporting oppor- higher education. tunities and events not dominated by alcohol. The number of British Muslim Higher Education students has increased, but The experience of Muslim students on only in the ‘non-elite’ universities. Rus- campus must be reviewed by univer- sell Group universities could do much sities and student unions, particularly more to encourage British Muslims to with regards to Islamophobia. The NUS access them. University institutions has found that more than half of Muslim could work with Muslim institutions to students have been subject to harass- 46 provide workshops, taster days, com- ment or abuse online, a third have been petitions and tours, and use recently victims of crime or abuse at their fur- graduated alumni to give talks for ther education college or university, Muslim students intending to pursue and 79% of those who have suffered Higher Education, in order to provide abuse felt they had been targeted be- as much information and support as cause of being Muslim.56 More needs possible. The next government should to be done to ensure Muslim students reflect on the significance of religion are safe and feel respected on univer- in applying equality legislation, not sity campuses. Efforts must be made to just ethnicity, to help students access remove the threat and fear of Islamo- wider education and opportunities. phobia to ensure a positive university experience for Muslim students and Once at university, data suggests that to encourage more Muslims to attend fewer British Muslim men, than women, university. are gaining accreditation, and more British Muslims overall are failing to Equality levels could be better ob- graduate when compared to students served, and universities held more of other faiths.55 The next government accountable for inequalities if sufficient must work with universities to data was available. understand why this might be the case and develop policies to tackle the at- tainment gap. Universities should also To improve transparency and address a lack of diversity at universities among teaching staff, students and student unions, the next government should ensure all universities publish their data pertaining to religion of staff, students and student unions.

Recommendations

• Support for the continued teaching of Religious Education as a priority subject, continue to consult religious organisations when shaping the syllabus for the National Curriculum.

• Ensure schools engage constructively with concerned parents in the process of policy-making in areas such as Relationship and Sex E ducation, respecting the religious backgrounds of all pupils.

• Continue support for faith school provision and a fair and transparent process for considering faith school applications. 47 • Develop a more informed approach to school inspections with Ofsted that does not conflate religious conservativism with extremism.

• Provide training on governance to encourage parents from underrepresented backgrounds to participate in school governance.

• Apply equality legislation for religion, not just ethnicity, to help students access education and opportunities.

• Conduct research with universities to understand the cause of the a ttainment gap for Muslims and develop policies to tackle this.

• Ensure all universities publish their data pertaining to religion of staff, students and student unions to address a lack of diversity.

• Emphasise the importance of lifelong learning in order to tackle poor skills levels, enhance integration and improve employability.

• Encourage cooperation between further Education colleges and local communities to identify local demand and offer suitable academic and vocational courses which are free at the point of use. 48 Health and Social Care

British Muslims share with many others the commitment to the core values of our National Health Service – availability of good healthcare based on clinical need, not the ability of the individual to pay, and preventative, ‘person-centred’ care that reflects the needs of the individual.

In England, approximately 10% of NHS cuts to public services and underfund- doctors, excluding GPs, are Muslim. ing of NHS trusts nationally since 2010 In addition, approximately 3% of staff remain problematic amongst the gen- in NHS England’s Trust and in Clinical eral population too.58 Commissioning Groups (CCGs) are also Muslim.57 As these fi gures exclude GPs and NHS staff in Wales, Scotland and Health Inequalities Northern Ireland, where there are a sig- The Muslim population today is younger nificant number of BAME and overseas than the overall population, but by clinical staff, it is likely that this un- 2036 it is estimated that 10% of the der-represents the true extent of the Muslim population will be aged 65 and 49 contribution of Muslims to the NHS. above.59While younger Muslims have a similar self-declared health profile to the Islamic tradition fosters strong family population as a whole, older Muslims, and altruistic values, which is culti- particularly women aged 65 and above, vated in Muslim communities. Muslim self-declared bad or very bad health institutions and communities can act (38% for these Muslim women, compared as a strong vehicle for change, offering to 16% for all women in England).60 ample opportunities to provide educa- Those at the helm of health policy- tion, help vulnerable people, encour- making need to take up the challenge age socio-economic empowerment of ensuring equity for all sections and provide companionship to address of society, including the Muslim loneliness. population.

Healthcare is a key issue for Muslim Health practices seem to be failing some communities, with the two most impor- Muslim communities as demonstrated tant concerns being ‘access to health- by poor health outcomes and the par- care and availability of services’ and ticularly low Muslim participation in key ‘cuts to the NHS and privatisation’ as national screening programmes, such shown in the Muslim Council of Britain’s as the NHS bowel cancer-screening survey of its affiliates. The sustained programme.61 With research showing faith-based pro- Muslim women have been found to grammes, mainly focused on primary receive poor and inappropriate mater- prevention and general health mainte- nity care, which puts them and their nance, having a significant impact on babies at risk. Muslim women tend to improving health outcomes,62 engage- encounter a range of issues, including ment with faith and cultural commu- stereotyping and inaccurate cultural as- nities is key in order to facilitate the sumptions held by some practitioners.63 lifestyle changes that are necessary The next government should ensure to improve public health. Policy must services do more to support Muslim meet the needs of all sections of soci- women through this significant life ety by working alongside communities event. to design and implement initiatives which deliver tangible improvements. Ensuring an appreciation of the diversity in beliefs and practices amongst Determinants of ill health such as low Muslims, through access to the nec- income, poor housing and homelessness, essary education and training to pre- disconnected communities, stigma and vent assumptions and stereotyping discrimination need to be addressed will vastly improve the experiences of through a more holistic approach. Muslims and other minorities. The next Research has shown that a significant government should improve diversity, cause of under-diagnosis and under- equality and unconscious bias training 50 treatment of conditions in BAME com- such that these can offer specific munities is down to a lack of aware- guidance on minority faith and ethnic ness and understanding of the issues. communities. This could help equip However, there is a distinct lack of staff with the necessary awareness and data for faith communities specifically. skills to address challenges. Whilst the vast majority of Muslims are from BAME backgrounds, healthcare services must begin recording faith, as Patient Public Involvement well as ethnicity, of patients to give a Communities most vulnerable to health better understanding of background inequalities are the least likely to par- and allow for a more tailored approach ticipate in patient public processes. to healthcare. In addition, providing If this is not addressed appropriately cross-cultural communication train- these communities (including refugee ing to medical staff in areas with large and asylum groups) will face a further Muslim representation and increasing widening in inequalities. available funding for health link workers would provide stronger outreach Community associations should play in all communities. a greater role in educating the community with co-produced health interventions. In particular, faith lay representation will benefit in the co-production of services which cater for the spiritual needs of communities carrying out significant outreach work already. In these areas, a shift of to stimulate open and honest conver- resources to local communities (who sations, and raise awareness about are upskilled and enabled to help them- what help is available and how to selves) would have a transformative access it. The NHS has a statutory duty effect on healthcare design and deliv- to provide culturally appropriate care ery and boost health outcomes. These for its patients, which should include types of co-produced early interven- therapy which considers faith. Further tion and prevention initiatives will likely work should be undertaken into how also have the added value of reducing to tailor mental health services to be demand on acute services, leading di- culturally and religiously sensitive. rectly to substantial cost savings.

Adult Social Care Mental Health The MCB’s report, Elderly and End of Approximately 1 in 4 people in the UK Life Care for Muslims in the UK, found will experience mental health problems an increasing older-age population in their lifetime,64 and faith communities across Britain is leading to the rising are no exception. Muslims have been need for social care services, with ev- found to be under-referred for mental idence showing demand is not being health treatment, and the outcomes for met in a timely way. In particular, el- those who do get referred are not as derly Muslims may not ask for services 51 good as the general population.65 due to perceptions of being a burden, lack of awareness of due rights, and a The rate of suicides in Britain has risen lack of information available. sharply to its highest level since 2002, with men accounting for 75% of all sui- There are a number of ways in which cides in 2018.66 Suicide is a huge prob- local authorities should respond to lem for all communities, but more faith needs of elderly Muslims – for ex- research and evidence is needed into ample, the availability of halal meals in the most vulnerable sections of soci- care homes with Muslim residents upon ety to inform a community-based sui- request; taking a carer’s gender into cide prevention strategy. Suicide rates account in the allocation of domiciliary should be broken down in much more care; provision of transport to attend detail, including ethnicity and faith, Friday prayers. The next government to allow for specific approaches to should encourage collaboration be- prevent suicide in different pockets of tween mosques and voluntary associ- society. ations within Muslim civil society with health authorities and specialist agen- The next government must commit cies to ensure faith needs of elderly appropriate resources to mental health Muslims are met. to improve access to services, while End of Life Care There is a strong call from religious Managing palliative and end of life care communities for invasive autopsies to is always difficult, but evidence sug- never be routine or automatic. Non- gests that the current model of end invasive autopsies (CT and MRI scan- of life care does not meet the health ning) should be the first option and needs of Muslim communities. Such ev- made readily available free of charge. idence includes reports that point to an Areas with high Muslim and Jewish unmet need amongst Muslims of end of populations should have good ‘out of life care. This is reflected in poor uptake hours’ cover from all the necessary of advanced care planning and hospice professionals at the time of death to services, including community-based help expedite the necessary processes. services and on-site care.67 Funding and adequate resources should be provided to ensure that this Within Muslim communities, imams service is available at all times. and mosque leadership must raise with their congregations issues of death and There is consensus that there is a short- dying, which can increase awareness of age of burial space, with this being palliative and end of life care services, more acute in London and Birmingham. and help counter the stigma in access This issue should be taken up by the of services. The next government next government with solutions found, must also work with faith organisa- including revisiting the existing legis- 52 tions to strengthen community-based lation on re-usage of graves and work- chaplaincy services to allow for Muslim ing with local authorities to ensure patients and families to better access practical solutions are put in place to palliative and end of life care through allow for the re-usage of graves, as is trusted people and trusted spaces. done in certain local authorities.

The next government must ensure palliative and end of life care service providers better understand how faith and cultural preferences of individuals and their families can be recognised and supported.

Death Certification and Coroner Services Islamic practices for burial are in line with burial conventions of other faiths, such as in the Jewish tradition. Muslims strive to bury the dead as soon as possible after death. Recommendations

• Design policy to meet the needs of all sections of society and coordi- nate delivery alongside communities for the most impact.

• Collect data specifically on faith to allow for more granular analysis of impact and a better tailored approach to policymaking.

• Train medical staff on cross-cultural communication in areas with large Muslim representation and increase funding for health link workers to provide stronger outreach in all communities.

• Review why Muslim women receive poor and inappropriate maternity care and take steps to ensure services do more to support Muslim women through pregnancy.

• Adapt diversity and equality and unconscious bias training to offer specific guidance on minority faith and ethnic communities to equip healthcare staff with the necessary awareness and skills.

• Improve access to mental health services, particularly for Muslims who 53 are under-referred, and undertake significant outreach work to raise awareness of services available in Muslim communities.

• Record suicide rates in more granular detail, including ethnicity and faith, to enable specific prevention approaches.

• Enable further collaboration between mosques and voluntary associations within Muslim civil society with health authorities and specialist agencies to meet the faith needs of elderly Muslims.

• Strengthen community-based chaplaincy services and improve palliative and end of life care services to better recognise faith and cultural preferences of individuals and their families.

• Offer non-invasive autopsy free of charge to all and provide funding to implement a reform of the coroner programme to facilitate this. 54 Criminal Justice

Justice is a core value within Islam. Respect for the law, supporting safe and secure communities, and being a good citizen are all aspects to be promoted.

These are common practical concerns Policing that are shared by many in society, The rate at which incidences of hate yet the commonality of interests and crime and Islamophobia are rising shared values too often fails to come around the UK is alarming, with Home to the fore, and community relations Office statistics showing that more than are impacted as a result. Greater dia- half of all religiously motivated attacks logue is needed between Muslim com- in 2017 – 18 were directed at Muslims.68 munities, police and security services, Furthermore, some communities that fostering mutual respect and trust. Di- are affected are less likely to report at- alogue needs to be respectful, patient tacks to the police due to a lack of trust and open, and involve all sections of or belief in the system; therefore, the full the community, especially the young. scale of offending is unknown. There is a sentiment that cases where Muslims forces in England and Wales lost 15% of are the suspects are investigated and their officers between 2010 and 2018.70 prosecuted robustly, however, when The commitment of recent govern- there are hate crimes directed towards ments to recruit more police officers Muslims there is insufficient evidence. is welcome and the next government should ensure police forces have suffi- Knife crime in England and Wales has cient resources to restore community increased by 80% since March 2014.69 links. It has become particularly prevalent in many urban areas, affecting many Muslim and BAME communities with Counter-Terrorism 61% of Muslims polled by the MCB The overall principle that the ‘first duty identifying this as the most important of government is the safety and secu- issue pertaining to security. The next rity of its citizens’ is important. When government should prioritise increas- it comes to tackling the challenge of ing community policing and develop- terrorism, British Muslims have con- ing joint initiatives between police, sistently condemned terrorism in the youth organisations, faith and cultural strongest possible terms. communities and schools to tackle the root causes of knife crime. Local police Nevertheless, that effort is being under- forces should be encouraged to work mined in relation to counter-terrorism, with mosques and places of worship particularly the Prevent strategy of the 55 to install knife amnesty bins, as many Counter-Terrorism policy. The United places of worship have already done. Nations Special Rapporteur stated that “Prevent is having the opposite of its More responsive and sensitive policing intended effect: by dividing, stigma- is required to restore confidence, and tising and alienating segments of the there needs to be a greater focus on population.”71 recruitment of officers from minority backgrounds to reflect the diversity Taken together with increasingly illib- of the communities they work with. eral counter-terrorism powers, the det- While the introduction of more com- rimental effects of the Prevent strategy munity-based policing is needed, sig- must be recognised in its continuing nificant efforts are required to re-build alienation of British Muslim commu- trust that has been lost during the im- nities. With the fastest-growing terror plementation of the Prevent strategy. threat in the UK now coming from far- right extremism, the focus of the Pre- Cuts in policing budgets have also af- vent strategy on Muslim communities is fected the opportunity for community unreasonable. organisations to build links and relationships with the police as their numbers have been drastically reduced. Police Recent suggestions for the Government In order to develop a more effective to close Shari’ah courts exacerbate the policy in combatting terrorism, which problem.72 For many, they are seen as continues to blight our society, it is measures designed to appeal more key to engage, consult and built trust to the prejudices some people have with communities as partners. In ad- against Muslims, not tackle the scourge dition, the next government should of terrorism itself. develop an evidence-based strategy to look into the causes of radicalisa- The Prevent strategy has resulted in tion. Part of this will be to consider resources being spent on phony ideo- proactively creating spaces to allow logical battles and training public serv- ideas to be discussed in public, par- ants on how to report the ill-defined ticularly by young people rather than non-violent extremism, whilst funding have them driven underground where is cut from our police forces. A fresh radicalisation is more likely. approach following a comprehensive, in-depth, independent review of all Local Scrutiny Involvement Panels, counter-terrorism related legislation is which are already established by the therefore required that does not rely Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), are on Prevent and its flawed underlying designed to scrutinise the CPS on premise of a conveyor belt from ‘non-vi- certain cases, looking at the approach olent extremism’ to violent extremism. taken, the evidence collected, 56 conviction rates and the treatment of The review into the Prevent strategy, victims. The next government should which was announced by the pre- consider the benefits of establishing vious government, is welcome, but Local Scrutiny Involvement Panels to the issues with this review raised by review counterterrorism cases. This MCB and other civil society organisa- would allow greater transparency into tions must be addressed. In particular, the workings of the police and the CPS the appointment of the reviewer must which community organisations can be properly scrutinised and concerns then analyse. about independence and credibility, as raised by the MCB and civil liberties organisations should be accounted for. Muslims in Prison The terms of reference for the review The number of Muslims in prison has should be revisited to ensure the review more than doubled over the past 16 includes a comprehensive evaluation years, with 16% of the prison popula- of the past implementation of the Pre- tion identifying as Muslim, compared vent strategy, which has proven to be to 5% of the general population.73 The deeply problematic and controversial. next government must ensure prisons are equipped to support Muslims with their religious and cultural needs. In- formation, guidance and training should be given to prison staff to en- The next government, as a matter of hance their understanding of the urgency, should implement the recom- needs of Muslims. mendations of the Lammy and Angiolini reviews, including recording and pub- Problems faced by Muslim women, lishing data on ethnicity and faith for both while in prison and upon re- better scrutiny of the approach taken lease, are particularly acute. There by the criminal justice system. are 226 Muslim women in UK prisons, accounting for 6% of the female prison Rehabilitation should adopt a holistic population.74 These are worrying statis- approach, not simply a transactional tics that require the attention of Muslim relationship between the person on civil society and cooperation with probation and their probation officer. specialist agencies. In prisons with a The re-integration of ex-offenders in sizeable population of Muslim women, society is not only the responsibility the recruitment of Muslim women as of government, but of the community prison officers who are aware of com- too. Islamic and cultural institutions in munity issues will enable prisons to communities should look to establish have in-house resources on particular working relationships with statutory sensitive issues. agencies to help support people upon release from prison to successfully rein- For Muslim women in particular, the next tegrate into society. government should develop a commu- 57 nity-owned preventative programme of The next government should look into action led by community organisations, the merits of broadening its approach and work to raise awareness of the fac- to probation to use the facilities and tors that impact on Muslim women’s support networks faith and cultural paths into and out of criminality. communities provide.

The Lammy Review conducted in 2017 concluded that the criminal justice system in England and Wales has deep-rooted issues with bias and discrimination in its treatment of people form ethnic minority backgrounds. The review into deaths and serious incidents in police custody, carried out by Dame Elish Angiolini in 2015, also found that a disproportionate number of people who have died following the use of force were from BAME communities. Legal Aid Changes to the legal aid system which The cuts to legal aid have dispro- ensures universal access to justice – portionately impacted upon Muslim particularly where liberty is at stake communities. This damages the rule of - should be implemented. A clear strat- law, where the equality of access to jus- egy to improve BAME, and in particular tice is fundamental. The recent increase Muslim, presence in the administra- of court fees has compounded the diffi- tion of justice is needed to bring it on culties faced by those with low income, par with Muslims as a proportion of the making the right to justice inaccessible. wider population.

The next government should carry out an impact assessment of legal aid cuts on Muslim communities.

Recommendations

• Prioritise increasing community policing and developing joint initiatives between police, youth organisations, schools, faith and cultural communities to tackle the root causes of knife crime. 58 • Work with mosques and places of worship to install knife amnesty bins at faith institutions.

• Increase recruitment of officers from minority backgrounds to reflect the diversity of the communities they work with.

• Recruit more police officers to ensure police forces have sufficient resources to restore community links.

• Take a fresh approach to countering extremism following a comprehensive, in-depth, independent review of all counter-terrorism related legislation.

• Address the concerns raised by the MCB and wider civil society about the review into the Prevent strategy.

• Develop an evidence-based strategy to look into the causes of radicalisation. • Consider the benefits of establishing Local Scrutiny Involvement Panels to review counterterrorism cases.

• Recruit Muslim women as police officers who are aware of community issues in prisons with a sizeable population of Muslim women.

• Develop a community-owned preventative programme of action led by community organisations, and work to raise awareness of the factors that impact on Muslim women’s paths into and out of criminality.

• Implement the recommendations of the Lammy and Angiolini reviews, including recording and publishing data on ethnicity and faith for better scrutiny of the approach of the criminal justice system.

• Explore the merits of broadening the approach to probation to use the facilities and support networks faith and cultural communities provide. 59

• Undertake an impact assessment of cuts to legal aid on Muslim communities and commit to ensuring access to justice for all.

• Improve BAME, and particularly Muslim, presence in the administration of justice to bring it on par with Muslims as a proportion of the wider population. 60 Immigration and Refugees

The Muslim population in Britain is ethnically very diverse, with 53% of Muslims having been born outside of the UK. Recent wars and humanitarian crises, particularly in the Middle East and Africa, have resulted in an increase in the number of people across the world seeking safety, security and refuge in stable countries.

Immigration is important not just to the the high threshold for visa sponsorship diversity of communities, but to ensure has on different faith, ethnic and so- Britain has the labour force it needs, in- cio-economic groups. If the immigra- cluding doctors, agricultural workers, tion system is overhauled in the event scientists, entrepreneurs and many of leaving the European Union, a fairer others. system which does not disproportionately discriminate against those from Immigration and the impact of immi- low socio-economic backgrounds, or gration on local areas are likely to con- those from non-Western countries, cern many Muslims, just as they concern would be welcome. other parts of British society. For example, some Muslims voted to leave 61 the European Union in 2016 citing feel- A Sanctuary for those ings of unfairness between freedom of Seeking Refuge movement for European citizens and The conflicts, humanitarian disasters, a much harsher system for those from unfolding across the world, particularly the Commonwealth. in the Middle East and Africa, have led to a significant increase the number The current immigration rules for those of people seeking refuge in safe and outside of the European Union in- stable countries. Many Muslim com- volve high sponsorship costs, both for munities believe it is morally impera- employment visas and family visas. tive to uphold the proud British and With many Muslims in low socio- Muslim tradition of helping those seek- economic groups, meeting the annual ing refuge from war, persecution and income threshold of at least £18,600 degradation. With 72% of respond- to sponsor a spousal visa is not fea- ents to the Muslim Council of Britain’s sible. For general work visas, which survey feeling the UK Government see many Muslims come to the UK should accept more refugees, the next from South Asia to work in the hospi- government should ensure it continues tality industry, the salary threshold is to uphold our moral and international £35,000, which is much higher than obligations by taking our fair share of any low-skilled worker earns. The next refugees. government must review the impact Many refugees risk their lives to flee Community Sponsorship programmes their homes and come to Europe. An and provide additional support to com- endless number of horrific cases of lives munities taking part in this initiative. lost making this difficult journey have been widely documented. The next government should offer safe and English for Speakers of legal routes to the UK for refugees to Other Languages (ESOL) avoid the need for making journeys Many refugees and immigrants, espe- that could cost them their lives. cially those from the first generation of migrants, may not have the English A reform of family reunion rules to make language skills to enable them to par- it easier for refugees to join relatives ticipate fully in British society. Instead living in the UK would be welcome. In of stigmatising these people, the next addition, the Syrian Vulnerable Persons government should provide additional Resettlement Scheme should be ex- funding for English as an additional panded to offer sanctuary to more of language classes to help migrants and those in need. The next government residents improve their language skills. should re-open the Dubs scheme for A central English for Speakers of Other unaccompanied child refugees, ensur- Languages (ESOL) online service could ing Britain meets its responsibilities speed up the access to resources and by taking in 3,000 unaccompanied enable more successful engagement 62 refugee children. with education for those who need it.

Refugees are often resettled in a country where the society, language and culture are completely different and new to them and providing for their effective reception and integration is beneficial for both the settled refugee and the host country. Muslim communities in the UK often share a common faith, culture and language with many refugees, and can act as a bridge in welcoming and helping them with in- tegrating into their new society. The MCB has partnered with Mercy Mission UK, a charity supporting vulnerable people, to encourage more mosques and British Muslim communities to support vulnerable refugee families via the Community Sponsorship scheme. The next government should encourage Recommendations

• Recognise the importance of immigration, particularly for the economy, but understand the impact high levels of immigration have on communities across the UK.

• Review the impact the high threshold for visa sponsorship has on different faith, ethnic and socio- economic groups.

• Uphold our commitment to resettle refugees from countries affected by war and conflict, providing a safe haven in the UK.

• Offer safe and legal routes to the UK for refugees, to avoid dangerous and often life-threatening journeys.

• Expand the Syrian Vulnerable Persons Resettlement Scheme and re-open the Dubs scheme for 63 unaccompanied child refugees, ensuring B ritain meets its responsibilities by taking in 3,000 unaccompanied refugee children.

• Encourage Community Sponsorship programmes and provide more support for refugees resettling in the UK, including working with faith and community groups to tackle issues faced by refugees.

• Fund English language tuition for migrants and residents to improve their language skills to tackle socio-economic barriers to integration. 64 International Affairs

British Muslim communities are a microcosm of the world, and hold deep rooted connections with people, cultures and languages from across the globe. Britain’s national interest should be aligned with upholding international law, justice and humanity.

British Muslims can be seen as a bridge There have been numerous instances to Muslim states across the globe, as of countries committing horrific human can other cultural and religious commu- rights abuses against their citizens in nities in Britain. The next government recent years. This has been most acute should seek to engage UK-based among Muslim communities, like the representative institutions in an at- genocide of the Rohingya in Myanmar, tempt to understand diverse and well- the concentration camps set up to hold informed diaspora opinions. This will over 1 million Uighurs in Xinjiang and help to facilitate the formation of better the illegal shut down faced by commu- policies. nities in Indian-occupied Kashmir. The MCB found in its surveying of a cross- section of its affiliate base and wider 65 British Values for British British Muslims that an overwhelming Foreign Policies majority (89%) of respondents felt ad- British foreign policy should be based dressing human rights abuses abroad on the principles of justice, humanity should be the government’s priority. and the upholding of international law. The next government must stand up With the recent rise in conflicts across against such human rights abuses, the world, it is arguably more important push for UN resolutions condemning than ever to ensure Britain’s approach these atrocities, and use its diplomatic to international affairs embodies these power to discourage governments principles. from taking such actions against their citizens. Over recent years, British arms have been identified as having been used In particular, the fundamental freedoms in conflict zones, potentially intensi- and human rights of the Palestinian fying humanitarian crises. The next people must be respected. The ten- government’s arms export policy sions between Israel and Palestine are should be explicit: British arms should ongoing, with the further annexation not be promoted for sale where they of Palestinian territories. The historic may be used to commit human rights vote in the House of Commons in 2014 abuses or war crimes. to recognise Palestine as a state was a momentous step to support its self- Climate change is not an issue confined determination, but unfortunately, no to one country, and not something further action has been taken. The next that can be solved by individual gov- government should formalise the ernments. Every community is respon- binding recognition of Palestine as an sible for caring for the environment. independent state. Not only should governments be working together globally to align efforts to The withdrawal of the United States create a sustainable future, but govern- from the Iran Nuclear Deal by President ments should also be pushing for more Donald Trump has demonstrated an green policies and encouraging their attitude of contempt for international own communities to consider climate treaties. This is an increasingly danger- change. ous trend, and the next government must ensure it rejects this behaviour in In Britain, many mosques and Islamic the strongest terms and continues its centres have launched campaigns participation in international treaties, to encourage environmentalism – particularly those of such significance. from caring for and cleaning up local environments, to introducing green initiatives like the use of reusable International Aid crockery. 76 With British Muslims donating more 66 to charity than any other faith group The next government must empower in the UK,75 the commitment by the individuals, communities and businesses, government to spend 0.7% of Gross and work with other countries to change Domestic Product on international culture, to be more conscious of the development is welcome. Aid should impact of actions on the planet and to be directed to overcome poverty and foster an understanding of what every- promote self-sufficiency. It is impera- one can do to combat the impact of tive that this aid spending is not used climate change. as a bargaining tool with developing countries to secure trade deals or for reasons other than to help those most in need.

Creating a Sustainable Future Whilst Muslim communities have been taking small steps to tackle climate change, the recent global drive towards sustainability must be harnessed to plan for the huge leaps that need to be made by all. Recommendations

• Engage UK-based representative institutions to understand diverse and well-informed diaspora opinions to facilitate the formation of policies.

• British arms exports should not be promoted for sale where they may be used to commit human rights abuses or war crimes.

• Stand up against human rights abuses, as seen against the Rohingya in Myanmar, the Uighurs in Xinjiang and communities in Kashmir. Push for UN resolutions condemning these atrocities and use diplomatic power to discourage governments from taking such actions against their citizens.

• Formalise the binding recognition of Palestine as an independent state.

• Continue participation in the Iran Nuclear Deal and 67 reject the behaviour of President Trump towards this international treaty.

• Ensure foreign aid is directed to alleviate poverty and promote self-sufficiency, not used to secure trade deals or for reasons other than to help those most in need.

• Empower individuals, communities and businesses to understand the impact of actions on the environment and take steps to combat climate change. Endnotes 14 90% of people haven’t been inside a mosque – change that this weekend, Muslim 1 A review of survey research on Muslims Council of Britain, 13 February 2018 in Britain, Ipsos Mori Social Research Institute, March 2018 15 A review of survey research on Muslims in Britain, Ipsos Mori Social Research Institute, 2 Muslim Poll, BBC ComRes, February 2015 March 2018

3 Power of the Muslim vote and Muslim 16 A review of survey research on Muslims voting patterns, MEND, 2017 in Britain, Ipsos Mori Social Research Institute, March 2018 4 BJP support group bats for Tories in 48 key UK seats, Times of India, 5 November 2019 17 Voters more likely to back anti-Muslim party than reject it, The Guardian, September 5 Ethnic Minority British election Study – 2012 Key Findings, Runnymede Trust, February 2012 18 We need clarity and consistency in our 6 If you do one thing this election, stop your education standards: British Muslims respond kids voting, The Spectator, 2 November 2019 to the Ofsted reports of schools in Birmingham, Muslim Council of Britain, 9 June 2014 7 Record Number of Muslim MPs elected, 68 The Muslim News, 23 June 2017 19 Now Liberal Democrats suspend council candidate over Islamophobia as Tory and 8 Home Office raises grant for protection of Labour controversies rumble on, I News, 18 Jewish institutions by £600,000, The Jewish April 2019 Chronicle, 27 February 2019 20 Ukip being turned into ‘anti-Islamic 9 Briefing to the Home Office – Amendments party’ that could soon have Tommy Robinson to the Places of Worship Protective Security as leader, defectors say, The Independent, 3 Scheme, Muslim Council of Britain, 11 June 2019 December 2018

10 Muslims ‘are Britain’s top charity givers’, 21 Complaint to the EHRC about Islamopho- The Times, 20 July 2013 bia in the Conservative Party, Muslim Council of Britain, May 2019 11 Why Muslims Donate So Much to Charity, Particularly During Ramadan, Huffington Post, 22 Tory leadership rivals back Islamophobia 17 May 2018 inquiry, BBC News, 19 June 2019

12 Understanding Faith-based Charities, New 23 Tory Islamophobia inquiry now ‘general Philanthropy Capital, 2019 investigation’, says Boris Johnson, The Guard- ian, 27 June 2019 13 The Shrinking Political Space for CSOs in the UK, Bodi, F., 2019 24 Religious hate crime rises 40% in England 36 Are employers in Britain discriminating and Wales – with more than half directed at against ethnic minorities?, Centre for Social Muslims, The Independent, 16 October 2018 Investigation, Nuffield College, University of Oxford, 18 January 2019 25 Hate crime, England and Wales, 2017 to 2018: data tables, Home Office,16 October 2018 37 Ibid.

26 Islamophobia Poll, Comres, MEND, 27 38 Five Whitehall buildings held by wealthy October 2018 businessmen now operating under Sharia rules, The Independent,3 March 2016 27 Media fuelling rising hostility towards Muslims in Britain, University of Cambridge, 28 39 Our Shared British Future, Muslim Council April 2016 of Britain, March 2018

28 Muslims and the News Media, Elizabeth 40 The impact of welfare reform and welfare- Poole, John Richardson, 2006 to-work programmes, Equality and Human Rights Commission, 2018 29 State of Media Reporting on Islam and Muslims, Centre for Media Monitoring, 2019 41 Universal Credit: What you’ll get, Gov.uk, accessed on 7 October 2019 30 Racism rising since Brexit vote, Opinium, May 2019 42 All Kids Count: The impact of the two-child 69 limit after two years, Church of England, June 31 Record number of UK children excluded 2019 for racist bullying, The Guardian, 30 November 2018 43 End of Year Stats, Trussell Trust, March 2019 32 Childline sees spike in counselling sessions about race and faith-based bullying, NPSCC,28 44 How the United Kingdom voted on Thurs- June 2017 day… and why, Lord Ashcroft Polls, 24 June 2016 33 Race and Disparity Audit, UK Government, March 2018 45 British Muslims Regret Brexit Choice, HOPE not Hate, 11 February 2019 34 Do British Muslims face employment penalties?, CSI Nuffield, Oxford University, 46 The Social Mobility Challenges Faced By September 2016 Young Muslims, Social Mobility Commission, September 2017 35 British Muslims in Numbers, Muslim Council of Britain, 2015 47 An Equal Exit? The Distributional Conse- quences of Leaving the EU, Institute for Public Policy Research, July 2018 48 Ibid. 59 Elderly and End of Life Care for Muslims in the UK, Muslim Council of Britain, August 2019 49 Ethnicity, deprivation and educational achievement at 16 in England: trends over time, 60 Ibid. Department for Education, June 2015 61 Evaluation of the UK Colorectal Cancer 50 Schools, pupils and their characteristics: Screening Pilot, UK CRC Screening Pilot Evalu- January 2017, Department for Education, 28 ation Team, May 2003 September 2017 62 Health programmes in faith-based organi- 51 Four Muslim schools make top 10 nation- sations: are they effective? DeHaven, 2004 wide progress list, The Muslim News, 29 March 2019 63 Exploring English speaking Muslim women’s first-time maternity experiences, BMC 52 Education Maintenance Allowance Pregnancy and Childbirth, 2019 (EMA) Statistics, House of Commons Library, 13 January 2011 64 Mental health facts and statistics, Mind, 53 Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA) 2017 Statistics, House of Commons Library, 13 January 2011 65 Mental health therapy for Muslims embrac- es religion, BBC News, 12 February 2017 70 British Muslims in Numbers, Muslim Council of Britain, 2015 66 Suicides in the UK: 2018 registrations, Office for National Statistics, 3 September 2019 54 British Muslims in UK Higher Education, Bridge Institute, October 2018 67 Ibid.

55 Ibid. 68 Hate Crime, England and Wales, 2017 to 2018: data tables, Table B1, Home Office, 16 56 The Experience of Muslim Students in October 2018 2017-18, National Union of Students, 18 March 2018 69 Crime in England and Wales: year ending December 2018, Home Office, 25 April 2019 57 Equality and diversity in NHS Support Organisations and Central Bodies, NHS, March 70 Police workforce, England and Wales, 2019 Home Office, 31 March 2018

58 What does the public think about NHS 71 Statement by the United Nations Special social care services? The Health Foundation, Rapporteur in the UK, United Nations Office of May 2017 the High Commissioner on Human Rights, 21 April 2016 72 Government urged to tackle sharia ‘courts’ and religious tribunals by women’s rights and secular campaigners, National Secular Society, 16 June 2015

73 The Lammy Review, Ministry of Justice, 8 September 207

74 Life after prison for Muslim women, BBC News, 15 July 2019

75 Muslims ‘are Britain’s top charity givers’, The Times, 20 July 2013

76 Plastic ban for Ramadan urged as British Mosques go green, Muslim Council of Britain, May 2019

71 72

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