DAR AL HARB - U.K.: MOSQUES FLYING BRITISH FLAGS IS INSULTING

Mosque flags idea insulting — Woolas
by OUR LOBBY CORRESPONDENT

COMMUNITY Cohesion Minister Phil Woolas has slammed suggestions from a Conservative MP that Muslims should fly the Union Flag from mosques to show their commitment to the UK.

The Oldham East MP spoke out after the member for Shipley, Philip Davies, last night called on Muslim communities in Britain to adopt the measures following similar demands in Australia.

Mr Davies argued that such a move would publicly show everyone that those in the Muslim community are very keen to integrate and positively contribute to good community relations in the UK.

He has tabled a parliamentary petition praising the Australian initiative and urging Muslims to fly the Union Flag in the grounds of Mosques.But Mr Woolas said: “This is wrongheaded and misses the point.“

While it is traditional for Church of England buildings to fly a flag as the Queen is the head of state and church, other faiths do not follow this tradition.

“It is frankly insulting.”

Councillor Abdul Jabbar, a former Mayor of Oldham, said: “I do not know really what he (Mr Davies) is trying to achieve by this.“

The mosques do not have political affiliations to groups or nationalities. People from any background are welcome — as with churches.

“It seems to me a bizarre proposal. Mosques do not fly any flags or get involved in politics. I am at a loss.”

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The initial post with the news of Phillip Davies's idea can be found here: (link)


Pertinent Links:

1) Mosque flags idea insulting — Woolas