---

Criminal Justice and Immigration Bill

No, my Lords. I am arguing that the offence does not capture the theological argument about homosexuality in Islam, nor would it affect the way that it is literally interpreted by the imams. It would prevent an imam using homosexuality and theology to incite and stir up hatred. That is the issue. It is not the theological discussion with which we are engaged. That is not made illegal under this offence. The noble Lord, Lord Waddington, said in his opening speech at Report that the amendment, "““could not by the greatest stretch of imagination be thought to be aimed at gays””.—[Official Report, 21/4/08; col. 1366.]" Gays are all that it is aimed at. Let us see this amendment for what it really is. The Government have given us the opportunity to restore this provision to its unamended state so that it may help communities that are vulnerable. In the process, the guidance that they will publish will help to clarify any misunderstandings. I support the Government and reject the noble Lord’s Motion.