Quilliam: Nick Clegg’s speech ‘vital step’
Maajid Nawaz, Quilliam’s director, said in response to Nick Clegg’s speech on multiculturalism:
“Nick Clegg’s speech is an important recognition of how extremist groups on all sides, whether Islamist or far-right, are threatening the success of Britain’s multicultural society. Although it remains vague in parts, the speech is clear blueprint for how we can build a happier, freer and more equitable Britain. This speech builds on David Cameron’s recent speech in Munich and is an important step towards building a national consensus on this important issue.
“By stating clearly that extremism should be challenged and tackled wherever it occurs, this speech is a vital step towards treating all British citizens equally and towards overturning the long standing biases which have led to British citizens being treated differently on account of their racial or religious background.
“The challenge for both Nick Clegg and David Cameron is to ensure that this message is heard right across government and that these fine words are now translated into real action on the ground.
“At the same time, although some would seek to portray this speech as a shift in emphasis from Cameron’s Munich speech, we believe that this speech reveals a large degree of common ground between the two leaders. However, there is a clear need for further discussion of many of these issues. The exact nature of ‘smart engagement’ with extremists still needs to be defined, as do ‘shared values’. We also hope that in the future Nick Clegg will also be more explicit on why non-violent extremism is a problem in and of itself for society, regardless of whether it leads directly to terrorism or not.”
