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Social Cohesion and Democratic Resilience: Khan Review — [Sir Mark Hendrick in the Chair]
30 April 2024
Lead MP
Jonathan Gullis
Responding Minister
Lee Rowley
Tags
TaxationCommunity Security
Word Count: 12105
Other Contributors: 8
At a Glance
Jonathan Gullis raised concerns about social cohesion and democratic resilience: khan review — [sir mark hendrick in the chair] in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.
Key Requests to Government:
Gullis urges the government to consider the findings of the Khan review and work constructively to deliver social cohesion. He calls for stronger borders, more coherent approaches to national security, and the reintroduction of Prevent funding in Stoke-on-Trent to facilitate social integration and stop malign groups from exploiting immigration questions.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Opened the debate
Jonathan Gullis is concerned about the rise of antisemitism and hate in the UK, with reports that Jewish communities are scared to visit London. He highlights a recent incident where protesters from Hizb ut-Tahrir disrupted a local Conservative party dinner in Stoke-on-Trent. Additionally, he points out that far-right groups exploit tensions caused by events in the Middle East, targeting vulnerable young people and undermining social cohesion. Gullis also mentions that 80% of counter-terrorism police networks' live investigations are related to Islamist terrorism.
Jack Brereton
Lab
Stoke-on-Trent North
The MP welcomed the Khan review and praised Dame Sara Khan for her work. He expressed concern about the cessation of funding for Prevent in Stoke-on-Trent, highlighting instances of Islamic and far-right extremism in the city. The MP noted cases of extremist groups attempting to undermine democratic systems and reported that 60% felt the problem was worse than five years ago. Concerns were raised over attempts to restrict freedom through harassment and calls for mainstreaming extreme views.
James Davies
Con
Hereford and South Herefordshire
The review must consider the impact of globalisation and immigration on communities, emphasising the need for robust integration policies.
Jim Shannon
DUP
Strangford
Jim Shannon praised the multicultural community in Strangford, highlighting positive integration of refugees and visa holders. He expressed concern over the rise of freedom-restricting harassment online and in person, noting 85% believe it occurs and 44% have witnessed it both online and offline. Shannon also raised issues around social media's role in provoking controversy and respecting differing opinions. He mentioned incidents of extremist ideology displayed on Belfast City Hall and called for better democratic resilience to protect all forms of rational and respectable opinion.
Liz Twist
Lab
Blaydon and Consett
She emphasised the importance of tackling extremism and radicalisation, highlighting the need for a cohesive approach to address public health and well-being. She raised concerns about local authorities dealing with community conflict due to inadequate support from central government. Asked if the minister would give way during interventions.
Lorely Burt
Lib Dem
Solihull
I draw attention to the importance of digital literacy in fostering social cohesion, especially among younger generations.
Mark Hendrick
Lab Co-op
Preston
The hon. Member was asked to wind up his speech as he started another debate on a related subject.
Naseem Shah
Lab
Bradford West
Shah criticised the government's role in breaking down social cohesion, citing instances of political figures targeting Muslim groups and individuals. He highlighted that 85% of the public acknowledge the presence of freedom-restricting harassment and 60% perceive it to be worsening. He also mentioned a £34,000 bill paid by taxpayers for wrongful accusations against a professor supporting Palestine. He questioned the minister's approach, arguing that language is key for social cohesion and criticised the current government's failure to include Muslims in discussions about community well-being. I find it offensive that the Minister is offended by my stating facts about the Muslim population in Bradford West and their desire for equality, not special treatment.
Rupa Huq
Lab Co-op
Ealing Central and Acton
I urge the Government to acknowledge that local authorities are facing increasing pressure on their social care budgets, leading to a crisis in provision.
Government Response
Lee Rowley
Government Response
Welcomed the Khan review, highlighting its importance in examining challenges related to extremism. Acknowledged long-term issues affecting western democracies and emphasised the need for a mature debate without name-calling or accusations of bias. Discussed concerns about disinformation, self-censorship, disillusionment with democracy, and decreasing trust, especially among young people. Emphasised the importance of building resilience to support those involved in tackling extremism and protecting democracy. Reaffirmed government commitment to addressing gaps identified by the review through a series of measures including a full response before summer break.
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About Westminster Hall Debates
Westminster Hall debates are a chance for MPs to raise important issues affecting their constituents and get a response from a government minister. Unlike Prime Minister's Questions, these debates are more in-depth and collaborative. The MP who secured the debate speaks first, other MPs can contribute, and a minister responds with the government's position.