24th March 2003

I am currently engaged in a series of meetings with representatives of Muslim communities, including the Muslim Council of Britain, the Union of Muslim Organisations and the Muslim Community Safety Forum. I am therefore aware that British Muslims have very real and justified concerns at this difficult time, and I am writing to try to allay some of these.

The Prime Minister has many times expressed his belief that Islam is a peaceful religion, which values tolerance and understanding. British Muslims bring with them a strong and inspiring history of academic, scientific and cultural achievement and it is important that we celebrate the contribution they make to British society.

We have though seen in the past that at times of heightened tension in international affairs there has been a rise in the number of incidents against members of Muslim, and other faith, communities. Our government is fully committed to providing protection to all its citizens and all its communities. British Muslims are an integral part of our society and it is our duty to provide protection to all sections of the faith communities and their places of worship.

Police forces throughout the UK have been alerted to the increased possibility of crimes being committed towards members of Muslim communities and will take appropriate steps to safeguard individuals, places of worship, community centres and other premises where Muslims gather. They will be acting in accordance with the publication 'Breaking the Power of Fear and Hate' which is a guide to identifying and combating hate crime.

It is important that all incidents of this nature are reported to the police to enable them to direct their resources to where they are most needed - and of course they should be contacted at once in the case of an emergency.

Anyone who is suffering, or has suffered, abuse or harassment may also find it helpful to call the Muslim Line, which is part funded by the Home Office. It is a central information point for both Muslims and non-Muslims alike who require information on Muslim businesses, charities and organisations. They are able to refer callers to appropriate support agencies, either Muslim or non-Muslim, who can provide further help and counselling if required.

As part of the government's ongoing program of engaging with Muslim communities, I have started a series of visits to listen to the concerns of Muslim communities around the country and will be continuing these over the coming months. These visits are giving me the opportunity to hear for myself of the problems facing Muslims, and provide an opportunity for face to face dialogue.

Yours ever,
GEOFFREY FILKIN