The Inter Faith Network (IFN), a British charity established almost four decades ago to promote understanding between different faiths, is set to close on Thursday after having its government funding cut off. Last month, Communities Secretary Michael Gove said he was “minded to withdraw” funding following the appointment of former Muslim Council of Britain (MCB) deputy secretary general Hassan Joudi as an IFN trustee. The decision was confirmed by the Department of Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, despite protests from the charity and campaigners who have benefitted from its work. A spokesperson cited consistent government policy of non-engagement with the MCB as the reason for the cut.
Michael Gove’s department has advised the IFN to seek alternative funding arrangements. Whilst the IFN also raises funds through donations and membership, it has grown through partnerships with the government over the past 20 years. However, the DLUHC has stated that “The Inter Faith Network cannot rely on continuous taxpayer funding”, calling on the charity to develop sustainable funding arrangements.
The MCB is a broad representative body of British Muslims, with membership from over 500 mosques, Muslim schools and charities. Following allegations that leaders of the organisation supported violence against Israel, the government broke ties with the MCB in 2009. The MCB’s leadership has since changed, but the current government has also refused to engage with them. At present, no specific allegations have been levelled against Hassan Joudi.
The IFN confirms that the closure of the charity would have a significant impact upon long-standing projects around the country that were designed to encourage cooperation and understanding between different faiths. The government funding amounted to £150,000. Rev Canon Hilary Barber, co-chair of the Inter Faith Network, said the news had “come completely out of the blue”. He added that the IFN was meticulous in checking trustees’ credentials
Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More