16 August 2005
Methodist Church appeals for consensus on anti-terror laws
The Methodist Church is calling for the Government to seek a
broad consensus on new anti-terrorism proposals following the
London bombings. Although the Church recognises the need to give
the police the necessary powers to effectively combat terrorism,
there is concern that some fundamental rights and long-standing
traditions of hospitality and refuge are threatened by several of
the proposals.
Steve Hucklesby, Methodist Church Secretary for International
Affairs, says, 'Our society currently faces the difficult challenge
of ensuring the security of all whilst not eroding the fundamental
human rights of which we are rightly proud. To meet this challenge
it is necessary to encourage a climate of debate that is inclusive
of a range of views in our multi- religious and multi-ethnic
society.
'We encourage the Government to foster broad cross-party consensus
as it explores changes to legislation in the light of the London
bombings. There will be widespread support for some of the
Government's anti-terror proposals. However some appear to go
beyond what we need to ensure our security, raising questions
concerning fundamental rights and challenging our tradition of
providing a safe haven for those who flee persecution. Other
proposals raise questions concerning the independence of the
judiciary or seemingly fail to recognise that there is often a gulf
between 'extremist' and 'criminal'.
'For example, many will question how the proposal to introduce new
powers to close down places of worship will be balanced with
fundamental rights regarding freedom to worship, or indeed how
effective such measures will be. It is right that we re-examine
measures to enable the police to ensure our security but the
Government must give serious attention to the scope for enhancing
existing powers before proposing new legislation.
'The opportunity for public debate is valuable. The Government's
reaffirmation of its desire for consultation with the Muslim
community is welcome. However such consultation is going to be more
difficult if founded on proposals that are unclear and create
suspicion. Ultimately terrorism cannot be defeated by security
measures alone.'
The Church is also reaffirming its support for Muslims in their
conversations and debates about the roots of terrorism and
extremism within their communities. Elizabeth Harris, Methodist
Church Secretary for Interfaith relations, says 'Since July 7th
dialogue among Muslims about the causes of terrorism and religious
extremism has intensified. Christians have helped this process
though showing friendship and solidarity. Legislation that might
push underground those Muslims tempted by extremism could hinder
this dialogue and increase divisions within the Muslim community,
thereby strengthening extremism.'