Early day motion tabled by primary sponsor Mohammad Sarwar (Labour), on Wednesday, 7 January 2004, in the House of Commons. It is signed by 31 members in total.

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RELIGIOUS SYMBOLS IN FRENCH SCHOOLS

That this House notes proposals to ban noticeable religious symbols in French schools; recognises the importance of wearing certain items as a sign of faith, such as the Muslim hijab, Sikh turban and Christian crucifix or cross; understands that the concept of school uniforms, popular in the United Kingdom, is less common in France where there is greater emphasis on individual identity; believes that this ban is a direct attack on religious expression and its importance to individual identity; reaffirms support for freedom of religious expression as a fundamental human right enshrined in international law; and calls on Her Majesty's Government to make strong representations with partners across the European Union against this blatant restriction of personal freedom, in defence of France's diverse faith communities.

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Secondary information

Type

Early day motion

Reference

362 

Session

2003-04

Subjects

France Pupils Schools Religion Religious freedom

Link

View this Early day motion on edm.parliament.uk