Weakened Religious Hatred Law a Victory for UK Christians

 
After a shock defeat for the government in the House of Commons, the version of the bill that will now become law includes significant amendments proposed by the House of Lords, serving to allay many of the main concerns.

The most important of the amendments says that for anyone to be found guilty of the new religious hatred offense, prosecutors would have to show that the accused person used "threatening" language, writing or behavior.

The government had wanted a wider definition, one that covered statements or behavior that was "threatening, abusive or insulting."

Furthermore, the accused person would have to be found to have had the "intention" of spreading religious hatred -- a requirement the original bill did not stipulate.

Therefore criticism or ridicule of religion or religious practice will not be an offense.

 
FULL STORY at
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