Monday 12th July Hijab Conference - Statement By Hugo Charlton Chair of Green Party

Hugo Charlton, Chair of Green Party speech to the conf

"I regret the decision by some assembly members to attempt to deter the distinguished Muslim scholar Dr Al-Qaradawi from speaking at City Hall.
Among those human rights issues which are championed there, freedom of speech does not seem to be one they are prepared to prioritise in this instance.

"Dr Al-Qaradawi is widely respected in the Muslim world and to decline him this venue can only send a negative message to both the domestic and international Islamic community. I strenuously support all attempts to build bridges and increase understanding - this is best done through  dialogue, an essential component of which is allowing other people to speak.

"Whilst I understand and support the position of those who oppose homophobia and sexism when it is to be found in any religion (or anywhere else), I think that in this instance they have picked the wrong man, at the wrong time and in the wrong place.