CNN —The British government has published a new definition of extremism in response to a surge in hate crimes following Hamas’ October 7 attacks on Israel, a move critics warn could threaten free speech.
The new definition has no legal standing and does not affect current criminal law.
The government said the new definition was necessary due to a rise in hate crimes since the October 7 attacks.
The UK’s most recent net migration figures hit a record high and reducing these numbers has become a key priority of the incumbent Conservative government.
However, it is not clear that the government’s new definition will help ease tensions and has been criticized across the political spectrum.
Persons:
’, ” Michael Gove, Canterbury, Justin Welby, Gove
Organizations:
CNN, Conservative, Daily Mail
Locations:
Israel, British