Sir, Your Editorial on Brexit (The Muslim News, 25 Jan) about the wasted time on Brexit is spot on. Many Muslims may watch the Brexit shambles with bemusement, and those sceptical about democracy itself may even have a quiet chuckle.
The Brexit debate is about the future of the UK, we have a duty to examine closely the truth of claims and evidence, and act accordingly.
Firstly, a major way the pro-Brexit campaigners gained votes was to stir up fear of immigration. Some Muslims felt this was no threat to the main ethnic groups because stopping EU citizens, most of whom are white and not Muslim, freely coming here did not affect us.
Unfortunately, racists and xenophobes who shun migrants will not stop at blocking EU citizens. Next, they will turn on ‘our’ communities.
Since the Brexit vote, there has been an increase in racist hate crimes.
Secondly, leaving the EU and migration cuts will make us poorer, and vital services like the NHS will experience shortages of doctors, nurses; and even vegetable and fruit picking will be hit, raising costs for basic foods.
Thirdly, our industry has become very integrated with the EU. By leaving it, we are giving up an imperfect but experienced and well-oiled system of trade, for a totally unknown future.
Fourthly, we need to be in the EU ensuring that Human Rights are supported. The European Court of Human Rights, (not part of the EU) has supported the right of Muslims to practice their religion.
I call on Muslims to join the People’s Vote when we can choose either to go ahead with Brexit or opt to carry on getting all the benefits and stability of the EU.
Yours,
Sabir Rahman Jones
Kettering, Northants