British Humanist Association welcomes amendments to abolish blasphemy laws
The British Humanist Association (BHA) today welcomes amendments to the Criminal Justice and Immigration Bill made by the Government to abolish the common law offences of blasphemy and blasphemous libel.
Ms Hanne Stinson, BHA Chief Executive, said, ‘We have long campaigned to abolish to the outdated, divisive and discriminatory blasphemy laws, and we are delighted that the Government has fulfilled its commitment to introduce amendments to do just that.’
Ms Stinson continued, ‘In a free society we must be allowed to criticise religious doctrines and practices, even if that offends some people. Abolishing the blasphemy laws once and for all will be a victory for those seeking to protect the democratic right of free speech and will reflect the aims human rights and other law in the UK, which seek to protect people and their rights to their beliefs, but not to protect the beliefs themselves.’
Notes
The British Humanist Association (BHA) is the national charity representing and supporting the non-religious and campaigning for an end to religious privilege and discrimination based on religion or belief. It is the largest organisation in the UK working for a secular state.
For further comment or information, please contact Hanne Stinson on hanne@humanism.org.uk or on 020 7079 3583.
Find more information about the BHA’s position on blasphemy at www.humanism.org.uk
Naomi Phillips
Public Affairs Officer
British Humanist Association
1 Gower Street, London, WC1E 6HD
naomi@humanism.org.uk
020 7079 3585
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