Lord Tariq Ahmad of Wimbledon

Lord Tariq on Sky News 14 May 2011 The Ahmadiyya Muslim community voiced its support for David Cameron's drive to build greater social cohesion and a stronger sense of national identity. The community has been outspoken against extremism for more than 100 years, and is currently running a national peace campaign based on the ethos of the community: Love for All Hatred for None. National President Rafiq Hayat said: "We certainly welcome the Prime Minister's speech and his drive to build a stronger and more united Britain. In working towards this worthy goal it is important not to feed prejudice and foster greater divides and it is encouraging to note that the Prime Minister acknowledged that extremism comes in different shapes and guises. It was particularly assuring to hear him make clear that Islam and extremism are incompatible as that is certainly the case no matter what some extremists may claim. Extremism in all its forms is our common enemy. Muslim extremists have certainly hijacked the name of Islam and used it for their own warped political ends- and we want to see the Government do more to support those who counter such extremism and its root causes. Britain is our home and its rich heritage means that it is uniquely placed to benefit from the values of many different communities working together for a common good. There is absolutely no contradiction in being a Muslim and being a Briton- just as there is no contradiction in being a Jew, Christian, Hindu, Sikh, or Jain and being British. What is key is that we must recognise our common humanity, the fact that we are all in this country and must work together for our common good. Those who seek to divide us, sow discord and seek to segregate themselves undermine our society. Britain should be clear- we do not tolerate intolerance."