Ministers Recruit Young Muslims as Advisers in Latest Bid to Combat Islamic Extremism

August 29, 2008

Author: Ian Drury

Source: The Daily Mail

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1050266/Ministers-recruit-young-Muslims-advisers-latest-bid-combat-Islamic-extremism.html

Twenty young Muslims are to become personal advisers to three Cabinet ministers in an attempt by the Government to tackle Islamic extremism.

Labour says the group, aged 16 to 25, will keep Communities Secretary Hazel Blears, Culture Secretary Andy Burnham and Schools Secretary Ed Balls in touch with the mood of Muslim youths.

Ministers hope that listening to and addressing concerns that affect Muslims could ease tensions in multi-cultural communities and cut the risk of them becoming radicalised by extremists.

The Young Muslim Advisory Group, to be launched in October, will also work with Arts Council England and Sport England.

The aim is see how cultural and sporting opportunities, such as the use of football tournaments or music gigs, can reduce tensions within different communities.