The UK’s independent reviewer of terrorism legislation, Max Hill, is at it again – twisting himself into a convoluted pretzel seemingly to be able to come up with the highest level of political correctness.
Hill previously told us that it is “fundamentally wrong” to use the words “Islamist terrorism” to describe, well…Islamist terrorism. Hill believed that the word “terrorism” should not be linked “to any of the world religions” and that instead, the words “Daesh-inspired terrorism” should be used.
At the time, we argued this display of political correctness was yet another attempt by a Western government to put its proverbial head in the sand about the real and ongoing threat we all face – not just from ISIS but from all Islamist terrorists.
We also said not making the distinction leads to more racism and anti-Muslim bigotry, since the average person understands all too well the scourge of Islamist terrorism.
Now Hill says it’s not “appropriate to ask detailed religious questions in every case where a Muslims has been arrested on suspicion of [terrorism].”
Hill made the remark after concluding his inquiry into the police investigation of the Westminster Bridge attack in which five people were killed. (In that investigation, Hill ruled the police acted appropriately.)
Hill’s suggestion, like his previous one, is disconnected from reality. The very definition of terrorism is the use of violence by non-state actors or groups against civilians in the pursuit of a political goal.
Given world events since about the 1970s, religion has been at the forefront of terrorism committed by Muslims. Arguments can be made about whether or not these Muslims have interpreted their religion correctly, but that is an entirely different topic.
Hill also recommended that police be given the option of releasing terrorism suspects on bail before they are officially charged.
All told, recommendations like these only serve to make police investigations harder and the public less safe.
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