Rt Hon Theresa May MP, Prime Minister
I send my warmest wishes to all those celebrating Ramadan: a unique and special time for Muslims in the UK and around the world. Ramadan is a time for Muslims to find strength through devotion to fulfil one of the five pillars of their religion. It is a time for them to renew their faith in God and to become more attuned to their spirituality.
And while the holy month is marked by celebrations, gathering with friends and family to pray, sharing in the Iftar meal and exchanging gifts, Muslims around the world will also remember those less fortunate than themselves, those who are suffering. You take action by showing compassion and generosity to those in need; and continuing to donate millions to charitable projects here and abroad. British Muslims, and people of Muslim origin continue to make an indelible and positive mark on every aspect of life in the United Kingdom. Your influence can be seen across all spheres of society: from politics, media and business to sport and fashion. You enrich our country and all of us benefit from the talents of our Muslim colleagues and neighbours.
May all those celebrating this happy occasion draw strength throughout this festival of peace, reflection and good deeds; even as we remember those around the world who will be marking this festival in places of insecurity and conflict. So, I wish you Ramadan Mubarak, and may everyone celebrating experience happiness, unity and peace during this special and important time.
First Minister of Scotland, Nicola Sturgeon MSP
I extend my best wishes to Muslim communities in Scotland and across the world as they prepare for Ramadan, the holiest month in the Islamic calendar. The Muslim communities of Scotland are a hugely valued part of our society – their values of community and coming together for the common good lie at the heart of Ramadan. These are the same values which unite us all rather than divide us. I would like to wish everyone, Ramadan Kareem.
Liberal Democrat Leader, Rt Hon Sir Vince Cable MP
I would like to wish all those embarking on this holy month a heartfelt Ramadan Kareem. Ramadan’s themes of humanity, reflection and generosity are crucial to a cohesive society. As we approach the first anniversary of the Finsbury Park attack, we emphasise the need for adequate levels of security to protect British Muslims, not just during Ramadan but all year round. British mosques are making an immense contribution to UK society. To take just a few examples, the Norwich Bangladeshi Mosque has been providing meals to those in need, the West London Mosque whose members arranged shelter for the homeless during the recent cold weather and the Cambridge “eco-mosque” which when complete, will be a beacon of environmental sustainability.I wish all those taking part a safe, peaceful and spiritual Ramadan.