Tory Official Declares 'Hate' for Burqa, but Party Policy on Ban Remains Unclear

Tory shadow justice secretary Nick Timothy has stated his personal opposition to the niqab and burqa, describing the Muslim face coverings as a "ball and chain" and "harmful" to wider society. Speaking at a fringe event during the Conservative conference in Birmingham, Timothy compared the garments to a deliberate choice to isolate women.

He further suggested that state-funded schools mandating the hijab, a headscarf that covers the hair, neck, and ears but not the face, could be a breach of equality law. Timothy pointed to a recent situation at Barnet Hill Academy in north London, which requires female pupils to wear hijabs from Year 3, noting that while it is not a requirement for non-Muslim students, he believes it could discriminate against those who do not wish to wear it.

However, when pressed on whether the Conservative party would support a ban on the niqab and burqa, Timothy conceded that the issue is "very tricky." He acknowledged the importance of an open society and individual choice but added that he "genuinely don't know where we will end up" regarding party policy. He did note that some European countries have banned the burqa in public spaces.

Previous reports have indicated that Timothy and Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp are examining the merits of a ban on burqas as part of a review into Islamism. Timothy, who previously served as co-chief of staff to former Prime Minister Theresa May, also raised concerns about the hijab in schools, particularly primary schools.

A spokesperson for Barnet Council previously stated that Barnet Hill Academy's uniform policy is in line with other faith schools and that the school does not insist Muslim girls wear the hijab except during acts of worship. The school's website emphasizes its Islamic ethos and aims to direct children toward Islamic values and norms while ensuring all pupils feel valued and included.