The government has unveiled its new definition of extremism despite warnings it could have a “chilling effect” on free speech.
Michael Gove, the communities secretary, has updated the definition as part of a drive to clamp down on the Islamist and far-right extremism that has intensified in the wake of the Israel-Hamas war.
The new definition, released today, describes extremism as “the promotion or advancement of an ideology based on violence, hatred or intolerance” that aims to “negate or destroy the fundamental rights and freedoms of others”, or “undermine, overturn or replace the UK’s system of liberal parliamentary democracy and democratic rights”.
It also includes those who “intentionally create a permissive environment for others to achieve” either of those aims.
The government is also intending to release lists of organisations classed as “extremist” which will then be banned from meeting with ministers or other elected officials and will be unable to receive public money so they do not get a platform that could “legitimise” them through their association with the government.
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Ministers have insisted the new definition will not affect free speech – but critics have expressed concern the updated version could end up penalising the “wrong people”.
‘Divide and rule approach’
Speaking during Prime Minister’s Questions, Miriam Cates, the co-leader of the influential New Conservatives group, said broadening the definition of extremism could have “a chilling effect on free speech”.
“In separating the definition of extremism from actual violence and harm, we may criminalise people with a wide range of legitimate views and have a chilling effect on free speech.”
