The spiked podcast 338: Labour’s Islamic blasphemy laws
Feb 7, 2025
Ella Whelan, a Spike columnist, and Paul Embery, a trade unionist, dive into the contentious topic of Labour's potential blasphemy laws surrounding Islam. They discuss the implications for free speech and the societal risks of such regulations. The conversation shifts to Labour's declining popularity, linking it to a disconnect from working-class voters, and the rise of the Reform Party. They also tackle Trump's controversial order banning male athletes from women's sports, raising questions about fairness in competition amid changing gender policies.
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De Facto Blasphemy Laws
- The UK appears to be developing Islamic blasphemy laws through the back door.
- This is evident in the recent hate crime conviction for burning a Koran and Angela Rayner's plans to define Islamophobia.
Imam Kari Yassim's Stance
- Ella Whelan highlights the concerning case of a shortlisted committee member, Imam Kari Yassim.
- Yassim supported protests against the film "Lady of Heaven," which was critical of the Prophet Muhammad.
No Ideology Exempt from Criticism
- Paul Embery argues against ring-fencing any ideology from criticism.
- He emphasizes that ideologies, including Islam, often dictate right and wrong, making scrutiny essential.