PM calls for libraries to fight extremism

University libraries join spooks in fight against terrorism

Prime Minister Gordon Brown has called on universities and their libraries to become involved in the fight against extremism and terrorism. In his statement to the House of Commons on Wednesday 14 November, Mr Brown indicated the important role higher education, funding bodies and library services provide in promoting greater understanding of different faiths.

In a wide ranging speech to the House of Commons which covered threats to rail passengers, increased staffing levels at the security services; and a new border control force. Highlighting the role of education to combat extremism, Brown said; "It is by seeking to build on shared interests and shared values that we will isolate extremists and foster understanding across faiths."

Margaret Hodge, the Secretary of State for Culture is working with the Museums, Libraries and Archives Council (MLA) to develop a set of standards for dealing with inflammatory and extremist material in libraries. A spokesperson for the MLA told IWR it was working with librarian's organisation Cilip and that it was being called on to react quickly. The academic library community will be consulted, he said, and it is expected that Cilip will distribute the guidance to librarians in academia.

An MLA statement on its new task said; "Libraries want to properly balance the principles of freedom of thought and expression with the need to protect society, especially minority groups, from any risk of inadvertently propagating material that inflames hatred and extremism. The MLA recognises this is a complex area and we will draw up guidance. In drawing up the guidance, we will consult widely, not only with local authorities, but with national re prese ntative groups."

Higher Education minister John Denham is inviting universities to a debate on how to "maintain academic freedom whilst ensuring that extremists can never stifle debate," Brown said. "We stand ready to support in Britain new facilities for multi-faith scholarship, research and dialogue."

Along with the Arts Council England, Tate Gallery; the Victoria and the Albert Museum; the British Library will be taking multi-faith events on a nationwide tour to promote greater understanding of other faiths.