Britain begins independent review on use of Shariah law

LONDON: An independent review on Shariah law reportedly being applied in parts of Britain - as part of the David Cameron government’s counter-terrorism strategy

LONDON: An independent review on Shariah law reportedly being applied in parts of Britain - as part of the David Cameron government’s counter-terrorism strategy - began on Monday with the chair urging people with experience of the law to share their experiences.

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The review, commissioned by home secretary Theresa May, is chaired by Mona Siddiqui, an expert in Islamic and inter-religious studies. It is expected to complete the review in 2017.

Siddiqui said there was some proof that Shariah councils could be acting in an “discriminatory manner”

“This review will explore whether, and to what extent, the application of Shariah law may be incompatible with the law in England and Wales. It will examine the ways in which Shariah may be being misused, or exploited, in a way that may discriminate against certain groups, undermine shared values or cause social harms,” she said.

“Many British people of different faiths follow religious codes and practices, and benefit from the guidance they offer. Some religious communities also operate arbitration councils and boards which seek to resolve disputes. There is, however, some evidence that Shariah councils may be working in a discriminatory manner.”

Official sources said the panel was particularly keen to speak to those who had worked as part of a Shariah council in the past five years; and those who had used a council in any capacity in the last five years.