Memorandum submitted by Dave Downer (CJ&I 150)

Dear Members of the Committee,

I am writing to express 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'. As a committed Christian I firmly believe that we should love and show love to all people, irrespective of their lifestyle, beliefs and sexual practices. However, I also feel that the introduction of this proposed law is ill advised and poses a considerable danger to freedom of speech and freedom of religion in our nation.

Christians have no desire whatsoever to incite hatred, in fact quite the opposite. However, current trends in legislation are making the statement of our beliefs a criminal act. Orthodox Christian beliefs are a great foundation for society. Christian teaching is highly motivating towards serving and caring for the community in sacrificial ways For example, the Police are recognising that Christian communities can play a great part in helping keep law and order e.g. through the voluntary service of Street Pastors. (I personally attended a meeting of the Police and various Church ministers about this in Basingstoke recently).

All people are protected from assault and threatening words or behaviour under the current criminal law. Although it is not good to hate another person, nor is it a criminal offence to hate somebody - for reason of their sexuality or for any other reason. This law is not therefore only very unhelpful law abiding, caring, Christians but is unnecessary.

In light of these above concerns I would urge the Committee to uphold freedom of speech and to recognise that the proposed amendment is not only an unnecessary measure, but that it would endanger the freedoms that we now enjoy.

Thank you for taking the time to read this.

October 2007