Ban on women in Muslim race ‘unacceptable’, minister says

The communities secretary has said he was “horrified and appalled” a fundraising run in an east London park barred women from participating.

Hundreds took part in the 5 km (3.1 mile) race in Victoria Park on Sunday, according to East London Mosque, which organised the event.

Advertised online as an “inclusive” race welcoming runners and supporters of all ages and abilities, it was open to “men, boys of all ages and girls under 12”.

MP Steve Reed said it was absolutely unacceptable for women to be blocked from the run and that the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) would investigate whether any laws or regulations had been breached.

Speaking on LBC Radio, Reed said: “I saw these reports… and I was as horrified as anybody else.

“It’s absolutely unacceptable that women should be blocked from going on a fun run in a public space when the men are allowed to go out there and do that.

He said he was sure the equalities watchdog would be aware of the case and appropriate sanctions would follow.

He added: “Speaking for myself, I was appalled.

“We do not want a situation in this country where men are allowed to do things that women are then barred from. We cannot tolerate that.”

The annual event raises thousands of pounds for causes across the UK and abroad, including local youth projects, food banks and refugee support to international humanitarian relief.

The mayor of Tower Hamlets, Lutfur Rahman, is quoted on the website congratulating all those who took part, “especially to the youngsters and the elders and the community at large for participating today”.

The council said it had contacted the mosque to “seek urgent clarification” after reports about age and gender restrictions.

The EHRC is believed to be investigating, although it had not explicitly confirmed this.

An EHRC spokesperson said each complaint was considered carefully and that there are certain exceptions under equality law that can apply to charities and belief organisations, including potentially restricting events to one sex only.

A Tower Hamlets council spokesperson said: “This was an independent event held in Victoria Park, not organised by the council.

“Like many local charitable events, it made use of the park space. We are firmly committed to ensuring leisure and sporting activities in Tower Hamlets are inclusive and accessible.”

Last weekend’s event was the 12th annual Muslim Charity Run.

East London Mosque and London Muslim Centre have been contacted by the BBC for comment.