FOSIS Disappointed at Decision to Air Channel 4 Dispatches

The Federation of Student Islamic Societies (FOSIS) in the UK and Eire, today expresses its disappointment at the decision taken by Channel 4 to air the Dispatches investigation on Monday 15th January.

Faisal Hanjra, spokesman for FOSIS, said today, “The decision taken by Channel 4 to air this documentary was disappointing. The documentary deliberately quoted speakers out of context in order to paint a picture which in reality does not exist. The Islamic stance on issues such as jihad and homosexuality is clear. Jihad is part of Islam and homosexuality, as with other Abrahamic faiths, is seen to be something which is forbidden. The idea that holding these views somehow equates to an increased risk of terror in the UK is utterly absurd and completely unsubstantiated.

Unfortunately Channel 4 have failed to act responsibly in fulfilling their duty to accurately report on what is a very serious topic and have instead simply jumped on the bandwagon of sensationalist and inaccurate reporting which has typified many of the stories we have seen across the media spectrum on issues relating to Islam.”

FOSIS calls upon Channel 4 to be more responsible in their reporting of what are very sensitive issues during these difficult times.

[Ends]

Notes:
1. FOSIS (est. 1963) is the umbrella organisation of student groups in colleges and universities throughout the UK and Ireland, representing over 90,000 Muslim students.
2. A press conference will be held in the Jubilee Room, located in the House of Commons at 9:30am on Wednesday 21 st September 2005

For more information please contact FOSIS Media on: 07747 470 813