There are many European countries where the burka is restricted or being considered for an outright ban. Even the islamic government of Turkey have restrictions on its use. Only the UK is crazy enough to to allow the wearing of a burka in places like airports, banks and jewellers shops where this clothing has been known to have been used to break the law or escape justice. Surely if hoodies on youths is a problem then the burka is the same. We do not know if it is a man or woman under the guise of this garment. If the boot was on the other foot and we wore the burka and the muslim nations didnt, they would NEVER allow its use in their country. I have been refused entrance to mosques in Iran even when wearing proper in the same manner as Iranian men. Obviously they pick and choose the rights that they wish to comply with but we cannot in this country.

posted by: Michael Evison
on, 2010-07-19 20:45:35

The Burkha should definitely be banned. They are here in a Christian country and have no respect for us. When we go to their country, we have to abide by their rules. They should abide by our rules too.

posted by: lennox fisher
on, 2010-07-19 17:43:42

I wonder if Caroline Spellman would feel the same way about our "Free" country if she were to find herself under Muslim rule? Of course there should be a referendum, otherwise it is not a "Free" country!

posted by: Gillian Rochelle
on, 2010-07-19 17:25:32

When Islamic countries allow western Attire, i shall feel slightly less aggrieved, however, the Burkha is not only a sign of seperation and oppression, but it is a security risk, on the basis that we are democratic, and 2/3s of people would like to see it banned, then in the interest of democracy, surely there should be a vote.

posted by: Alistair Willburforce
on, 2010-07-19 17:18:30

I think the Burkha should be banned. After all people are not allowed into a bank with a crash helment on! They are a security risk! And who is to know that it is a lady underneath a Bhurka anyway

posted by: Susan Foster
on, 2010-07-19 16:51:45

Caroline Spellman does not want the Burkha banned. She say's we are a "Free" country. So if people want to come to our "Free" country then please abide by our values, not those of some other part of the world. Perhaps Caroline Spellman should also remember we are supposed to be a democracy, just like Blair before her it is not up to her to tell the people what will happen, she should be representing the people. If David Cameron does not as leader enforce this principle then his government is doomed to be short lived.

posted by: Peter Scott
on, 2010-07-19 16:48:56

If a recent poll suggests two out of three people are in favour of banning the Burkha it would be undemocratic not to have a referendum. It must be the peoples choice.

posted by: Anonymous
on, 2010-07-19 16:29:29