Conservative response to Consultation on powers to protect charities from extremist abuse

Rebecca Paul MP, Shadow Culture Secretary, said:

For too long, extremists have been able to gain a foothold in the charity sector. The current safeguards are not strong enough, and while it is right that the Charity Commission's powers are reviewed, the proof will be in the pudding when any changes are laid out.

Labour Ministers must be more robust. It is not enough to act only after offences have been committed. There must be effective safeguards to prevent extremists from gaining positions of influence in the first place.

Conservatives will always champion the vital work of the charity sector. But we must also protect it from those who seek to use the cover of charitable status to promote hatred, discrimination and division.