Free speech must be exercised responsibly - Liz Lynne

4.38.41pm GMT Wed 15th Feb 2006

Free speech must be balanced with respect for human rights and religious belief, Liz Lynne, Lib Dem MEP for the West Midlands and member of the Subcommittee of Human Rights, warned today.

The European Parliament today debated the continuing controversy over the publication of cartoons satirising the Prophet Mohammed. Euro MPs will vote tomorrow on a resolution on the right to freedom of expression and respect for religious beliefs.

Speaking in Strasbourg, Liz Lynne said:

"Free speech is a cornerstone of our society, and it is a principle we should fight to uphold. The violent protests and embassy burnings which followed the publication of these cartoons in a Danish newspaper are despicable and must be condemned."

"But freedom of expression must always be set against respect for other people's beliefs. Some of my Muslim constituents raised this issue when I met them last Saturday, and they told me how deeply offensive they found these cartoons. There is no doubt that the publication of these cartoons was deliberately provocative."

"While we enjoy the right to free speech, it should be exercised responsibly, and with respect for human rights and religious beliefs, be they Islamic, Christian, Jewish or any other religion."

ENDS