Dutch MP's ban a blow to freedom of speech

Published on Friday 13 February 2009 20:59

Voltaire said: "I disapprove of what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it." The UK government should have adopted this approach and allowed the unknown Dutch politician Geert Wilders entry into the UK (your report, 13 February).

Britain has for centuries been a melting pot of cultures and religions, an oasis of tolerance where communities can coexist and flourish. It is the mother of all democracies. Thousands have fought and laid down their lives to preserve the freedom of people to express and exchange opinions without the fear of intimidation and violence.

Islam is a towering religion. It enjoins believers to espouse tolerance. Muslims have been outspoken in denouncing terrorist acts perpetrated by the very few in their midst.

Islam has survived mendacious attempts to besmirch its image throughout centuries, and will never be dwarfed by the opinion of a maverick politician who has built his reputation on animosity and racism, and a genuine democracy like Britain must never compromise the inalienable right of people for free speech, no matter how offensive their opinions.

DR MUNJED FARID AL QUTOB

Collingham Road

London SW5