Issue 145

Warning Issued About Extremism On Campus

25th September 2006

The Welsh Liberal Democrat Spokesman for Education, has warned both Students and Universities to be on their guard for Islamic extremists. Peter Black who is also the Assembly Member for South Wales West, is concerned that Islamic extremists may be using Fresher's Fayres for recruitment and states that students should remain vigilant. He states that Welsh students need to be aware that of those alleged to have been involved in the foiled terrorist attacks in August, at least one was a student.

According to Mr. Black 'Students and College authorities need to be alert to the dangers of extremist groups taking advantage of this atmosphere to find new recruits'.

Abdullahi Arabo (Abba), Head of the Islamic Society, has spoken out against the comments made by Mr. Black and states that 'this is an unproven claim with no basis which only tries to create delusion in the minds of the general public and even possibly invite the extremist to think of using such kinds of avenues in the near future'.

Mr Black's concerns have echoed similar claims made by the Times Higher Education Supplement where a former member of the radical group Hiz but- Tahir, Shiraz Maher, warned that universities are 'bread and butter' recruiting grounds for extremist groups. Mr Black is adamant that Britain is a tolerant society and goes on to say that ' Britain has always been a tolerant country that cherishes our personal freedoms'. Mr Black has expressed his support for the Islamic Society for all the forums they offer for exposing the flaws in Extremist views. Although Mr. Black was given the opportunity to clarify his Press release, he did not offer an apology for causing offence. He stated that the Press release 'was very carefully written to acknowledge the important role played by Islamic societies in fostering understanding and tolerance and in offering forums to debate the issues'.

Abba agreed that the Islamic Society does have an important role to play, and goes on to state that 'The Islamic society has fully prepared itself in trying to make both new and returning Muslim and non-Muslim students feel part of a community, prompting a peaceful coexistence and tolerance as well as to establish a multi-faith community within the University'.

Student Union Treasurer, Owen Morris said "we have no evidence to suspect that any extremist groups have tried to recruit here. Every society or group has to be registered with or vetted by the Union.

The capmus enjoys a vibrant atmosphere where relations between groups and faiths are based on respect and understanding".

Jason Sannegadu