More Islamophobic remarks from Labour MP

URL-http://respectcoalition.org/?ite=1767
More Islamophobic remarks from Labour MP
11/02/2008


In a sensationalist article in the Sunday Times, Labour Minister Phil Woolas described many Muslims, many of his own constituents, as "inbreds". He claims that amongst Muslims "a lot of arranged marriages are with first cousins, and that produces lots of genetic problems in terms of disability."

Woolas has form in this department. In October 2006 he called for the sacking of Aishah Azmi for wearing the veil at school whilst working as a teaching assistant. He claimed that because Ms Azmi would only remove her veil in front of women, not men, she was guilty of sexual discrimination.

Oliur Rahman, chair of Respect and GLA list candidate in the forthcoming May elections, said "Phil Woolas is known to make unwarranted and racist comments. He angers Muslims and claims to know and understand our community, but he doesn't. He should keep his mouth shut about issues he knows nothing about."

Woolas has a problem with Muslims, and there are many Muslims in his constituency. Perhaps they would be best advised not to elect him again. Respect candidates in council and Greater London Assembly elections across the country are proud to stand against Islamophobia and refuse to go along with the mainstream in demonising a religion for populist appeal.