Tuesday, January 31, 2006

Religious hate plans face protest

"Attempts to find a compromise on plans for religious hatred laws will be put to the test in a vote of MPs as critics try to strike down the proposals.

Protesters against the incitement to religious hatred laws are set to gather outside Parliament ahead of the vote."

"The government wants religious groups to have the same protection from hate crimes as racial groups."

"The proposed safeguards included ensuring nobody is found guilty of religious hate crimes unless it is proved they intended to stir up hatred.

The peers said only "threatening words" should be banned by the bill, not those which are only abusive or insulting.

Ministers are instead proposing a compromise which would mean nobody is guilty of an offence if they debate, insult or ridicule a religion - unless they intend to stir up religious hatred."

"Sikhs and Jews already have full protection from incitement because the courts regard them as distinct races. The new laws would give protection to Christians, Muslims and others."
JTW News - Religious hate plans face protest

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