Choudary conviction proves ‘dangerous’ counter-terror laws are not needed, say free speech campaigners

Aug 19, 2016 by Jill

by Harry Farley, Christian Today:

The conviction of Anjem Choudary is proof the government’s counter-extremism plans are unnecessary, according to free speech campaigners who have labelled the proposals as “dangerous”.

The Defend Free Speech coalition unites the normally polarised The Christian Institute and The National Secular Society to oppose home office policy targeting non-violent extremism. The campaign warn the proposals will target legitimate people who have not broken the law.

Simon Calvert, campaign director of Defend Free Speech and deputy director of The Christian Institute, said the successful conviction of hate preacher Choudary proves the government already has legislation to prosecute extremists.

Calvert said: “But what this case does not demonstrate is why the Government needs yet another law, which will be so widely drawn as to potentially criminalise many ordinary people who hold traditional or strong views.

“As we have already highlighted, this could include pro and anti-religious groups, trade unionists and environmental campaigners. Indeed we have already seen police urging teachers to report on parents who go to anti-fracking protests.”

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