Muslim Council of Britain says no to 42 days

Press Release from the Muslim Council of Britain

The Muslim Council of Britain joins human rights groups, a growing body of thinkers and policymakers dealing with our security, together with the vast majority of the British public who oppose the extension of pre-charge-detention. Any further extension of pre-charge detention risks being counterproductive, damaging community relations and undermining the UK's moral authority around the world. We oppose terrorism in all its forms. We are all concerned about the right to security, free from terror, but this proposal serves to compound the problem, not resolve it.

'We do not believe that the government has made a convincing case for extending the pre-charge detention period from 28 days to 42 days. We are very concerned about the negative impact that this proposed legislation could have on relations between younger members of the Muslim community and the police. Of course it is right that we take proper precautions against the threat of terrorism, however, it is our view that this legislation will be counterproductive and will play into the hands of extremist groups,' said Dr Muhammad Abdul Bari, Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Britain.

ACT NOW

• Sign the petition
  We urge everyone to sign the petition organised by Amnesty International on the Downing Street website
• Write to your MP
  Make sure you tell your MP where you stand, find your MP here http://www.writetothem.com
• Seek common cause
  This isn't just a 'Muslim' issue, nor is it just a security issue, it is what we hold dear in Britain, freedom and justice - ancient traditions that are important to all of us. Seek out other faith groups, charities and concerned citizens and help form a united coalition against this proposal.

The Muslim Council of Britain is the UK's largest Muslim umbrella body with over 500 affiliated national, regional and local organisations, mosques, charities and schools.