A new student accommodation block in Dundee that caters specifically to Muslims has been condemned as 'segregation', with a Reform MSP pledging to have it shut down.
Faith-led housing opens near universities
Ilm Halal Student Halls has opened the facility close to both Abertay and Dundee universities. The firm describes it as the 'first and only Halal accommodation' in Britain. Rooms at Rose House are priced from £165 per week, with 11 of the 20 rooms already reserved.
The accommodation features fingerprint entry, a cinema, gym, and relaxation space, with a prayer room at its centre. Pork and alcohol are banned from the three kitchens. Marketing appears aimed mainly at male students, though it is unclear if women are excluded.
Political backlash
Reform MSP for the North East, Mark Simpson, said he was 'completely opposed to this' and 'will fight to get it cancelled'. Tory councillor Iain Gall from neighbouring Angus commented: 'This is so wrong, blatant segregation here in Scotland. Whoever sanctioned this should be removed from post. Imagine this was ''white only'', media would quite rightly go mad.'
However, others have pointed out that Catholic-only accommodation exists at Oxford. The firm's website says the halls offer 'a peaceful, values-led environment designed to support you through university life' and are 'founded on values of safety, inclusion, and academic excellence'. It stops short of requiring residents to be Muslim.
