The Government’s new strategy for tackling violent religious extremism has been attacked by the Liberal Democrats.

Communities Secretary Ruth Kelly set out a six-point plan to tackle extremism including an enhanced role for the Charity Commission, with the creation of a new faith and social cohesion unit.

There will also be a framework of new standards set by the state for imams who go into areas where individuals are susceptible to extremism such as prisons and universities.

Commenting, Liberal Democrat Shadow Communities Secretary, Andrew Stunell MP said:

“This latest plan is the Government’s usual disastrous mix of good intentions and poor analysis. The Government will not win hearts and minds if it continues to associate the word ‘Muslim’ with terrorism. 

“State interference in places of worship does not deal with the root causes of religious extremism. It was never suggested during the Troubles in Northern Ireland that state regulation of Catholic churches would have ended IRA activities.

“What is needed is honest engagement with some of our most disconnected communities. To tackle these problems in British society we must first address the chronic deprivation that allows extremism to breed.

“With the concerning proliferation of BNP candidates standing in the upcoming local elections, the Government must do more to combat the ugly spread of fascism that exploits poverty and ignorance.”