Moderate Muslim majority must confront extremism
IFpeople were convinced that Islamic extremists had little support among British Muslims it would be easy to write the off as an eccentric fringe element.
In such a context, plans for rallies by fundamentalists to press claims for a wholesale switch to sharia law in Britain could be regarded with equanimity rather than alarm.
Unfortunately, that is not the case. With the threat of Islamist terrorism a major factor in our national life and with a bewildering array of Muslim pressure groups always ready to press for new cultural concessions, the British public has come to a depressing conclusion: give them an inch and they will take a mile.
So any large demonstration by radical Muslims is bound to cause widespread anger. Police say that Islam4uK cannot be stopped from holding a rally in London later this month. In that case, it would be hugely encouraging were moderate Muslims to organise a much larger counter-demonstration that stressed their support for British law.
While there have certainly been criticisms of Islam4uK by more moderate groups, there is no sign of any such event taking place. It is the emerging tragedy of British Islam that moderates appear unable to marginalise extremists or to offer sufficient reassurance to the non-Muslim majority.
Pictures of thousands of Muslims calling for the black flag of Islam to be raised over Britain’s courts will only lead to even greater distrust and alarm.
Absolutely indefensible
When the public finances are under pressure and the armed forces are stretched almost to breaking point, it is vital that every penny of the defence budget is spent wisely.
Yet the procurement processes of the Ministry of Defence are a disgrace. A new report reveals that the average contract is £300million over budget and five years late. What a scandal.
Where are the penalty clauses that should make such delays and cost overruns ruinous to suppliers? Is the flow of long-serving Mod staff into jobs with defence contractors acting as a disincentive to tough contract negotiations among civil servants who hope to land lucrative positions one day? One thing is clear: Brave men on the frontline are being betrayed. And that is unforgivable.
What a classy double act
The Queen and prince Philip’s recent trip to the theatre took place without fanfare and with a minimal entourage. Many modern starlets could learn from their example. The real top people don’t need to make a fuss.
