Facing the Challenge of Islam in Britain Today

Published: 20 October 2025. The English Chronicle Desk. The English Chronicle Online.

For decades, Islam in Britain has presented challenges that demand urgent attention. From my experience representing more Muslims than any other Conservative MP in High Wycombe between 2001 and 2010, I witnessed firsthand how global events shaped local communities. Elected just months before the tragic attacks of 9/11, my tenure coincided with Afghanistan, Iraq, the London bombings of 7/7 and 21/7, the Glasgow airport attack, and multiple Middle Eastern conflicts. Even the first house I lived in was close to the residence of a quartermaster of a plot targeting a transatlantic flight.

Over the past 25 years, the majority of British Muslims have quietly lived their lives, contributing positively to society. Yet in some towns and cities, communal cohesion is weakening. Instances of segregation and balkanisation are increasing. MPs are occasionally elected along sectarian lines, territorial flags appear in public spaces, and law enforcement sometimes prioritises community management over upholding the law. Disturbingly, anti-Jewish violence has resurfaced in Britain for the first time since its readmission in the 1650s, while anti-Muslim attacks are at record levels.

Understanding the causes is essential. Extremists exist across all religions, yet only Islamist terrorism has posed sustained security threats in Britain. High-profile attacks, including the murder of Lee Rigby, the Manchester Arena bombing, the London Bridge attack, the killing of David Amess, and the Reading stabbings, were all linked to Islamic extremism. The Southport murders, where three young girls were killed, involved a perpetrator in possession of an Al Qaeda manual. Western foreign policy alone cannot explain such violence; incidents like the Danish cartoons controversy, the Batley teacher case, and the Charlie Hebdo attacks are rooted in ideology rather than geopolitics.

Historically, the Christian and Muslim worlds were comparably influential, but the rise of the West created cultural, political, and religious tensions. Three reactions have emerged: the political rise of Islamism through movements such as the Muslim Brotherhood and clerical Iran; religious extremism manifested in Wahhabism; and cultural and socio-economic challenges, with only Senegal among Muslim-majority nations recognised as politically free by Freedom House.

Consequences are evident: Al Qaeda, ISIS, and clerical extremism reflect political radicalisation, while grooming gangs highlight cultural neglect, and fundamentalist violence manifests in symbolic acts like the burning of Salman Rushdie’s Satanic Verses. Successive British governments have often exacerbated the problem, weakening traditional Muslim authorities abroad and empowering extremist interpretations in places like Saudi Arabia. Domestically, responses have been reactive and inconsistent, leading to recurring cycles of extremism and societal tension.

Addressing this issue requires an integrated, all-party approach. Expertise exists in institutions like the Counter Extremism Group and offices such as that of Commissioner Robin Simcox. Yet policy has lacked sustained commitment. Governments cannot compel apolitical Muslims to engage politically, nor impose representation or favour particular religious factions. However, extremists must not be granted taxpayer support, platforms, or influence.

Practical steps include stricter monitoring of funding for Islamic organisations, emulating approaches taken by Giorgia Meloni and the Danish governments on integration, and distinguishing between free speech and incitement to violence. Social media platforms must be held accountable for extremist content. Institutions such as the NHS and schools need faster suspension powers, stronger workplace policies, and expanded oversight by bodies like the Care Quality Commission and Ofsted. The full implementation of recommendations from William Shawcross’s review of Prevent is critical. The prison system must separate the most dangerous offenders. Protests against foreign governments are legitimate, but public safety and order must be maintained. While anti-Muslim prejudice must be addressed, the concept of Islamophobia must not suppress free expression.

The challenge is complex, but Britain cannot afford inaction. Strengthened institutions, clear policies, and societal vigilance are essential to ensuring safety, integration, and the continued flourishing of multicultural life.