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Protest: Hate Crime

Asked by Rupert LoweRestore BritainMinistry of Housing, Communities and Local GovernmentTabled Answered 20 May 2025UIN 51018

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, whether his Department has provided guidance to (a) local authorities and (b) community cohesion officers on the application of religious offences to (i) lawful speech, (ii) art, and (iii) protest in public spaces.

Answered by Alex Norris

We have regular engagement with local authorities on a range of issues including social cohesion and people are expected to express their views concerning religion and beliefs respectfully including exercising the appropriate restraints within the confines of the law when providing criticism.

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