By Martha Moss - 13th September 2011
We strongly condemn such instances, especially when it is a hate crime. Such threats are unacceptable
Jerzy Buzek
Parliament president Jerzy Buzek has condemned the threatening behaviour of the English Defence League (EDL) towards British ECR deputy Sajjad Karim.
Karim's Lancashire home was surrounded by about 30 members of the far-right group carrying anti-Muslim banners in July.
A spokesman for British Conservative MEPs told this website that Karim, who was inside with his wife and eight-year-old daughter at the time, had been "very frightened".
He added that the Muslim MEP for the North West of England had clearly been targeted by the group, who dispersed shortly after the police arrived.
A YouTube clip depicts the EDL protestors outside Karim's home, waving placards and shouting through the letter box. One man is seen claiming he has a letter to deliver to the MEP.
Speaking to MEPs in Strasbourg on Monday, Buzek said, "I wish to strongly condemn the violence used on 2 July against our colleague MEP Sajjad Karim in the UK.
"His private house was attacked by about 30 members of an extremist organisation who entered his property carrying anti-Muslim placards and shouting.
"We strongly condemn such instances, especially when it is a hate crime. Such threats are unacceptable.
"All necessary steps should be taken to protect Karim to allow him to continue his political work without being threatened."
Karim welcomed Buzek's support.
The Conservative spokesman added that Karim was also targeted by the British National Party (BNP) last year over his stance on halal and kosher meat.
Local media reported that he had received threatening e-mails and had 'BNP' graffiti scrawled on his home. The MEP was said to be concerned for the safety of his family, and hired 24-hour security as a result.
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