Reacting angrily to the ban on headscarves, turbans, yarmulkes or crosses in French schools, Nirj Deva, Member of the European Parliament for South East England and Conservative Spokesman for International Development and Co-operation has tabled a motion in the European Parliament calling on the European Union to embrace religious acceptance.

The motion, co-sponsored by West Midlands MEP Philip Bushill-Matthews and Bashir Khanbhai, the first Muslim member of the European Parliament called for Europe-wide acceptance of people of all faiths and their right to individually express their beliefs in a way that does not cause harm to others.

Commenting on the motion which has received the support of MEPs across Europe, Nirj Deva said:

“I find it disturbing that the French Government has recently passed a ban on the outward display of religious symbols in education establishments across the country.

“As the Member of the European Parliament for South East England, I am extremely fortunate to serve constituents with a variety of different beliefs who are all united in their respect for the multi-faith culture of the United Kingdom.

“I am extremely proud to be making a stand in the Parliament in support of the religious freedom of people across the European Union and will continue the fight to defend the liberties we all hold dear against the power of big Governments”.

Copies of the Declaration will be passed to the European Commission, the Council of Ministers and the Governments of the all European Union Member States.

ENDS

Notes To Editors

Full text of Parliamentary motion:

WRITTEN DECLARATION for entry in the register pursuant to Rule 51 of the rules of Procedure by Philip Bushill-Matthews, Bashir Khanbhai and Nirj Deva on religious freedom:

“The European Parliament,

A. Whereas religious freedom is one of the most basic and most precious freedoms endorsed by the European Union:

B. Whereas individuals from many faiths wish to express their faith throughout their daily working lives by the wearing of headscarves, turbans, yarmulkes or crosses;

C. Whereas education within Member States should be a key driver of Social inclusion;

D. Whereas the presence of people of all faiths in the same schools is to be welcomed;

1. Calls on all Member States to apply the basic principles of Liberty, Equality and Fraternity to people of all faiths, including Muslims, Sikhs, Jews and Christians;

2. Calls on Member States specifically to allow within educational establishments outward expressions of individual faith in a private manner that does not interfere with others;

3. Instructs its President to forward this Declaration to the Commission, the Council and the Governments of the Member States.”