Sara Khan, Lead Commissioner for Countering Extremism, has issued a statement on the case of Asia Bibi, the Pakistani Christian woman recently acquitted of blasphemy.
The statement comes as religious leaders, politicians and organisations have written a letter to the Government asking for a "clear and proactive statement that Britain would welcome a request for sanctuary here".
Sara Khan, Lead Commissioner for Countering Extremism, said:
“I am calling on the Government to offer asylum to Asia Bibi. Despite the verdict of Pakistan’s Supreme Court, Asia Bibi’s life remains in grave danger at the hands of religious extremists.
“Pakistan’s political context is challenging for all affected, from Asia and her family to British embassy staff, but protecting the life of a vulnerable woman and her family by providing safety in our country, wherever in the world they come from, is the right thing to do.
“Countering extremism means standing for human rights, religious freedom and equality, and standing firm against extremists who seek to do away with these fundamental rights and freedoms. This is an opportunity to send a clear message to extremists that our country will stand up for our values.”
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