Commons Sense

House of Commons · Urgent Question

Community Engagement Principles and Extremism Definition 2025-01-21

21 January 2025 · 4 other contributors

Opened by David Simmonds Con Ruislip, Northwood and Pinner

Crime & Law EnforcementCommunity Security

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

David Simmonds raised concerns about community engagement principles and extremism definition 2025-01-21 in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

Key points

  • Concerns raised about adherence to previous Government's working definition of Islamism and non-violent extremism
  • Minister emphasized national security and a cross-Government approach led by the Home Office for counter-extremism
  • MHCLG allocated 50 million for community recovery efforts following the Southport tragedy

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

David Simmonds Con Ruislip, Northwood and Pinner

Will the Minister confirm whether the Department still adheres to the previous Government's working definition of Islamism? Does it still have a working definition of non-violent extremism on which public bodies can rely? Can he tell why Ministers have not been 'as open as possible' and will share details of correspondence and meetings related to the counter-extremism strategy?

Other contributors (4)
  • Florence Eshalomi Lab/Co-op Vauxhall and Camberwell Green

    Question

    At a time when religious hate crime is increasing, including Islamophobia and antisemitism, will the Government consult on new definitions of extremism? There was a lack of consultation by the previous government.

    Minister reply

    Language must be careful to avoid inflaming tensions. Engagement with communities is crucial for effective measures; there will be engagement as part of the strategy.

  • Vikki Slade LD Mid Dorset and North Poole

    Question

    What consultation has been done with communities on changes, what burdens might fall on local authorities, and how are faith groups being united against extremism?

    Minister reply

    Local authorities are important partners. The Faith Minister meets representatives of all faiths to ensure effective dialogue and promote inter-faith work.

  • Jonathan Brash Lab Hartlepool

    Question

    Are Members encouraged to be calm in their dialogue on extremism, especially when it is viewed as a political opportunity?

    Minister reply

    Members should treat division as a tragedy and address it calmly. When not done so, all parties should call out such behavior.

Government Response

Alex Norris

National security is a priority. The Home Office leads on counter-extremism with a sprint review focusing on definitions and strategies. The MHCLG supports community recovery efforts with £50 million, addressing divisions post-Southport tragedy. Previous approach was different; the current government prefers a cross-Government but Home Office-led strategy. There is no evidence of robust use of previous policies. Government will remain open and consult communities for effective measures.

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