Following the shocking attacks on mosques in Christchurch, I’ve signed a joint letter with fellow Labour MPs that calls on Sajid Javid to release funding to improve security at places of worship.

Dear Home Secretary

 

We write as members representing our Muslim constituents to urge the early release of the very welcome additional funding you have announced for security at places of worship. You will recall the matter was raised in Home Office questions on Monday 1 April.

 

Following the appalling attack in Christchurch last month, we have been speaking to our local mosques, and they are understandably extremely concerned about security, particularly with the approach of the Holy Month of Ramadan, when the community will be highly visible. Many of our constituents will be attending late-night prayers during this month, and feel especially vulnerable when out late in the evening.

 

While the new funding will make a difference, it is therefore imperative that it is released as a matter of urgency, and that application processes are kept as simple and clear as possible, in order that measures can be taken to improve security in good time before Ramadan. We would very much appreciate an early opportunity to meet you to discuss how this could best be facilitated, and look forward to hearing from you in the very near future.