Source: Daily Mail
The Crown Prosecution Service has decided that anyone who attacks Scientology can be prosecuted under faith hate laws.
The move will for the first time provide the controversial Church of Scientology – described by some as a cult – the same protection as other mainstream religions.
Critics of the organisation, whose members include Tom Cruise and John Travolta, attacked the decision last night, saying it would encourage Scientologists to push for official recognition in Britain.
The Mail on Sunday understands the CPS passed down the guidance after it received legal advice from the Treasury Counsel to regard the group as a religion alongside Christianity, Judaism and Islam.
It means that any alleged offenders who ‘abuse’ or ‘threaten’ the Church of Scientology can be charged under the Racial and Religious Hatred Act 2006.