Question to the Home Office:

To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the potential for official speech-related guidance to create a chilling effect on free expression of religious or philosophical belief.

Freedom of religion and belief is a fundamental human right. People are expected to express their views concerning religion and beliefs respectfully, acting within the confines of the law when providing criticism. This government is committed to protecting the right of individuals to freely practise their religion and we will not tolerate religious hatred in any form.

Our approach to tackling religious hatred does not and would never inhibit free speech or override fundamental rights such as the right to freedom of religion and belief. The courts recognise the right to manifest religious belief as one of fundamental importance, but it is limited by the State’s legal obligation to protect the rights and freedoms of others – this includes respect for their freedom to have religions or beliefs different to our own. Any definition of religious hatred that the Government has adopted or may choose to adopt would be non-statutory.

Operational guidance relating to speech and expression is the responsibility of the police and the Crown Prosecution Service, who develop such guidance in line with legislation that is determined by Parliament.