Victory for free speech

Shock defeat for the Government’s Racial and Religious Hatred Bill.

01 February 2006

The Evangelical Alliance claimed a victory for free speech today after last night’s shock defeat for the Government’s Racial and Religious Hatred Bill. The organisation that has campaigned vigorously to defend everyone’s right to freedom of speech acknowledged the hard work done by its members and those from other religious and non-religious groups to keep the issue in the headlines.

Joel Edwards, General Director of the Evangelical Alliance, said, “We are immensely relieved that the political leaders of this country voted to protect every British citizen’s right to free speech. We are pleased that the bill, which will now go for royal assent, is the one that has been substantially amended by the House of Lords.”

The Alliance has worked tirelessly with other organisations over the last few months to win the argument and persuade MPs of the dangers of the Government’s proposed legislation. It now calls on Christians and those involved in the coalition to build on the lessons learnt for future campaigns.

Don Horrocks, Head of Public Affairs at the Evangelical Alliance, said, “This is a victory for working together constructively and intelligently, for taking the argument to those who make decisions. However, we mustn’t be complacent. Although free speech won the day on this occasion we need to be committed to participating in the democratic process for a free society, where views can be expressed without fear.

“This result shows what Christians and others can do when they make common cause.”