The Federation of Student Islamic Societies (FOSIS) in the UK and Eire today condemned the decision by Barclays to close the Ummah Welfare Trust's bank account.

Qasim Rafiq, spokesman for FOSIS, said today, "It is deeply concerning, particularly in light of Lloyds TSB decision to close Interpal's bank account, that Barclays have decided, without reason, to close the bank account of yet another charity, Ummah Welfare Trust (UWT). UWT is one of the few UK-based charities that has been at the forefront of providing essential relief work in politically-sensitive regions and it is undoubtedly the case that the repercussions of such actions will affect the charity's ability to continue such work and the impact will be felt by the thousands who desperately rely on the resources and aid provided by UWT."

He further added, "Such actions send out the wrong message to the Muslim community in the UK and set a dangerous precedent that any organisation working in a politically-sensitive region can have it's account closed, without reason, at any time. During a time when charities are facing more than enough difficulty in raising funds as a result of the current economic crisis, we request Barclays bank to revert it's decision and allow the charity to continue its life-saving humanitarian work."

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Notes:

1. FOSIS (est. 1962) is the umbrella organisation of student groups in colleges and universities throughout the UK and Ireland, representing over 90,000 Muslim students.
2. For more information please contact FOSIS media on 07786636691, email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or alternatively visit our website www.fosis.org.uk