National Convocation of Religious Leaders

HL Deb 13 November 2001 vol 628 c63WA

Lord Carlile of Berriew

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they will take the initiative in calling together a national convocation of religious leaders in an effort to secure greater understanding among congregations of the dangers presented to liberty and religious freedom by the Taliban. [HL1119]

The Minister of State, Home Office (Lord Rooker)

Religious leaders of all the main world faiths in the United Kingdom have been prominent in their condemnation both of terrorism and the perversion of religious belief by alleged adherents of any faith. If religious leaders believe that a national convocation would strengthen their unequivocal message or their efforts to get their congregations to understand it, it would be for them in the first instance to call such a convocation together. The Government would however readily consider any request to play an active role in the deliberations of a national convocation.