12/09/2012

C4 Cancel Islamic Film Screening Over Security Concerns

Channel 4 has cancelled the planned screening at its headquarters of a documentary film questioning the origins of Islam, citing security concerns.

The broadcaster received over 1,000 complaints following a showing two weeks ago of ‘Islam: The Untold Story’. The film claims there is little written contemporary evidence about the origin of the religion.

Its presenter, historian Tom Holland, was also the focus of substantial criticism, as well as abuse, on Twitter.

The channel said in a statement on Tuesday: "Having taken security advice we have reluctantly cancelled a planned screening of the programme, Islam: The Untold Story. We remain extremely proud of the film, which is still available to view on 4oD."

A Metropolitan police spokesperson said the force had no knowledge of the event or the decision to cancel it.

(H)


Related UK National News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.

12 January 2012
UK Film Urged To Go Mainstream
Comments made by Britain’s Prime Minister, that urged the UK film industry to become more "mainstream" ahead of a review on the UK’s film policy next Monday, have been met with criticism.
13 October 2003
Lottery-backed UK films net £125m in receipts
National Lottery investments in the UK film industry has generated box office takings of over £125 million, new figures released today have revealed. Overall, £13 million of Lottery funding invested by the UK Film Council has generated £125.
23 April 2004
Blueprint unveiled for film-friendly London
London’s new film and media agency, Film London, has unveiled a variety of measures aimed at making the Capital more film-friendly.
31 March 2011
Mayor Confirms Funding For Film London
Film London has announced that the Mayor of London will continue to invest in the agency. This commitment of funding ensures the UK capital has a dedicated film and media agency supporting and driving growth in London's production sector. With funding in place, Film London will continue to deliver its core activities.
29 November 2010
UK Industry Bankrolls Inbound Films
An increase in National Lottery funds and an emphasis on funding from within the UK movie industry itself are to bankroll the British Film Institute (BFI) as it assumes the former international marketing role of the UK Film Council (UKFC).