Commons Sense

House of Commons · Westminster Hall

Social Cohesion and Democratic Resilience: Khan Review — [Sir Mark Hendrick in the Chair]

30 April 2024 · 8 other contributors · 12,105 words

Opened by Jonathan Gullis Con Stoke-on-Trent North

Responding minister: Lee Rowley

Community SecurityDemocracy & Elections

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

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

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 points

  • Jonathan Gullis expressed concern over the rise of antisemitism and hate in the UK, noting Jewish communities are afraid to visit London due to safety fears.
  • Gullis highlighted an incident where protesters from Hizb ut-Tahrir interrupted a local Conservative party dinner in Stoke-on-Trent.
  • Gullis urged the government to address Islamist terrorism, citing that 80% of counter-terrorism police networks' live investigations are related to it.

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.

Opened the debate

Jonathan Gullis Con Stoke-on-Trent North

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.

Other contributors (8)
  • 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

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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