Imam in film row dismissed as advisor

A LEEDS imam has been dismissed as a Government advisor accused of backing campaigns to prevent cinemas screening a film about the Prophet Mohammed’s daughter.

Qari Asim MBE, imam of the Makkah Mosque in Leeds, served as an independent advisor as well as deputy chair of the Government’s Anti-Muslim Hatred Working Group.

In a letter published on Saturday, the Department of Levelling Up, Housing & Communities said it had “no option” but to end his roles with immediate effect.

“Your recent support for a campaign to limit free expression – a campaign which has itself encouraged communal tensions – means it is no longer appropriate for you to continue your work with Government in roles designed to promote community harmony,” it reads.

“You have encouraged an ongoing campaign to prevent cinemas screening the film Lady of Heaven, a clear effort to restrict artistic expression, and the campaign you have supported has led to street protests which have fomented religious hatred.”

Recent protests have been held over the film’s screening, with Cineworld last week cancelling all screenings to “ensure the safety” of staff and customers.

The letter cited comments on Facebook, said to have come from Mr Asim, suggesting a successful resolution to the controversy would involve cinemas cancelling film screenings.

It also claimed the Imam had advertised a protest in Leeds, providing details of its timing and location.

“This clear involvement in a campaign to limit free expression is incompatible with the role of a government adviser,” the letter read.

Mr Asim was approached for comment.