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	Meadows of Paradise

Muslim Wedding: MP Fitzpatrick Out of Touch With Muslim Constituents

Islamic Forum of Europe (IFE) is mystified with Food Minister Jim Fitzpatrick’s unwarranted allegations and attack against it, following his attendance at a constituent’s wedding at the London Muslim Centre (LMC).

At the wedding reception Mr. Fitzpatrick was reportedly asked to sit separately from his wife, a choice and arrangement made by the Bride and Groom. Rather than taking it up with his hosts or even the LMC who formulated their letting policy, Mr Fitzpatrick decided to throw wild and fictitious allegations against IFE and its influence on the LMC as well as Muslim wedding customs. This is not only disrespectful to his host’s choice of how they chose to celebrate their ‘Big Day’, but utter ignorance and insensitivity of the community he serves.

Muhammad Habibur Rahman, President of IFE said: “Mr. Fitzpatrick’s unfounded allegations have outraged the community and has done nothing but tarnish his image and the good name of IFE whose work and engagement in social cohesion is well known and appreciated”.

Mr Fitzpatrick, who has been representing the local community in Poplar and Canning Town for a number of years should have better knowledge and understanding of his constituents' religious and cultural values, as many weddings organised on religious grounds have separate seating arrangements, this includes Muslim and Jewish weddings.

We have contacted Mr. Fitzpatrick for an explanation of his unwarranted outburst.

[Ends]

IFE is a pan-European voluntary organisation, working for the benefit of the Muslim community in partnership with wider society. IFE has an active community engagement programme and is committed to community cohesion and religious tolerance. IFE is a national affiliate and a founding member of the Muslim Council of Britain.

To request interviews with IFE’s President or a spokesperson please contact Syed Ahmed on 07956 907382 or Mohammed Abul Kalam 07939059819.

Article ref no: ATC446, 15 Aug 2009

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