Memorandum submitted by Richard Haddow (CJ&I 48)

 

Dear Members of the Committee,

 

I would like to take this opportunity to express my strong concern regarding the proposed amendment to the Criminal Justice and Immigration Bill regarding the matter of human sexuality.

 

As a Christian, I seek to follow biblical teachings. One of these teachings is that Christians should show love to all, without regard to their race, lifestyle, moral practices or beliefs. However, the Bible also teaches that certain moral behaviour is contrary to the commandments given by God; I should have the right to hold such views even they are offensive to other people.

 

The proposed law is unnecessary in any case, since all people are protected by current laws from assault, threatening words, or from having acts of violence incited against them.

 

The proposed law would severely threaten freedom of speech and freedom of religion. It would make the expression of certain moral opinions illegal. I have the opinion, consistent with biblical teaching, and orthodox/historical Christian opinion, that homosexual behaviour together with extra-marital heterosexual behaviour) is immoral. Other people may find this viewpoint threatening, but surely it is wrong effectively to criminalise my ability to hold this view? This is a move towards an Orwellian society and thought crime.

 

I urge the Committee to uphold freedom of speech, and to recognise that such a law would not be a move towards greater tolerance, but towards greater intolerance.

 

Thank you for your time and consideration.

 

October 2007