Post by Dan Dare on Mar 4, 2024 11:23:57 GMT
Not wanting to sidetrack the 'hate preacher' discussion, but a report in the Times today indicates that that initiative is only part of a wider government plan to expand the definition of extremism and to name individuals and groups that fall within it.
The present definition, which has been in place for more than a decade, defines extremism as “vocal or active opposition to fundamental British values” and is seen by the government as no longer being fit for purpose.
The new definition, which is still under review, "is expected to cover those whose actions more broadly “undermine” the country’s institutions or values".
Per the Times:
"The change is significant because groups or individuals deemed to be extremist by ministers can be excluded from government and council funding and barred from working with public bodies.
Senior Whitehall sources said that the announcement, expected later this month, would include a list of groups that fell foul of the new definition, but added that this was still being worked on and was “legally fraught”.
Senior Whitehall sources said that the announcement, expected later this month, would include a list of groups that fell foul of the new definition, but added that this was still being worked on and was “legally fraught”.
It will be interesting to see how far the government casts its net beyond the current hate preachers and Islamist groups. The Times indicates that amongst other, the net will be extended to snare "individuals preaching racism, incitement, or using intimidation or violence to undermine the democratic process."
We'd all be better minding our p's and q's when this emerges into the light. It will be interesting to see if the new regulations include a definition of 'fundamental British values and institutions'.
