Memorandum submitted by David Longley (CJ&I 194)

 

 

I want to let you know of my deep concern about the proposed amendment to the Criminal Justice and Immigration Bill, which would make it a criminal offence to 'incite hatred on the grounds of sexuality'. Like all other committed Christians whom I know, I believe that Christians should love and demonstrate that love to all people, without regard to their lifestyle, beliefs and sexual practices.

Nevertheless, I am very concerned that to adopt the proposed amendment will pose a real danger to both freedom of speech and freedom of religion in our nation.

1.  I believe that the amendment is unnecessary because all people are protected from assault and from threatening words or behaviour under the current criminal law. What is more, the law concerning incitement to commit a criminal offence would make it an offence for anyone to incite any act of violence against another person, for whatever reason.

2.  While adherents of the majority of major world religions believe that homosexuality is against the teaching of their religion, the freedom of speech we enjoy must allow them to express their understanding or opinion of what their religion teaches - while indeed doing so with love, rather than hatred. The free speech our nation cherishes says, in effect, 'I disagree with what you say, but I will defend your right to say it.'

3.  There have already been cases in which Christians have been interviewed by police, taken to court and even prosecuted for speaking about their view on sexuality - and in a non-threatening manner - as well as others who have lost their positions at work.

4. Further, a number of prominent homosexual people have themselves recently spoken or written against the proposed amendment. For example Peter Tatchell, who writes in Guardian Unlimited on 10 October 2007: "All incitements to hatred should be treated with the same zero tolerance. But not, in my opinion, by means of criminal sanctions. Free speech is precious. It should be limited only in exceptional circumstances - when it slips into inciting violence and murder."

In view of these concerns, I urge you and the whole Committee to uphold freedom of speech and to recognise that the proposed amendment is an unnecessary measure.

Thank you for your consideration.

October 2007