Forty Labour and independent MPs have written to Housing Secretary Steve Reed urging the government to adopt a formal definition of Islamophobia, following a 19% rise in anti-Muslim hate crimes recorded in 2025. The letter, organised by MP Afzal Khan, highlights that 45% of all religious hate crimes now target Muslims, marking a 92% increase since 2023.
The MPs’ appeal comes after a government working group, chaired by former attorney general Dominic Grieve KC, submitted its report earlier this month proposing a non-statutory definition. The group was established in February to define “unacceptable treatment, prejudice, discrimination and hate targeting Muslims or anyone perceived to be Muslim.” A consultation is expected before any adoption.
Critics have expressed concerns that such a definition could restrict freedom of speech, particularly criticism of Islam. However, signatories including Diane Abbott, Dawn Butler, and independent Andrew Gwynne argue that a definition is essential to protect the Muslim community, with Khan stressing the need to preserve free speech while tackling discrimination.
The Labour Party adopted its own definition in 2019, based on the all-party parliamentary group’s wording: “Islamophobia is rooted in racism and is a type of racism that targets expressions of Muslimness or perceived Muslimness.” The current government has not yet endorsed any definition, despite similar adoption of a definition of antisemitism in 2016.
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government confirmed it is “carefully considering” the working group’s recommendations. MPs have urged Reed to adopt the definition during Islamophobia Awareness Month in November, working with communities the definition is meant to protect.
