Other News In Brief

MCB Opposes Discriminatory Gay Marriage Law

The Muslim Council of Britain (MCB) is appalled to see the utterly discriminatory provision of the new gay marriage legislation proposed by the government. Farooq Murad, the Secretary General of the MCB said: "We find it incredible that while introducing the bill in the House, culture secretary Maria Miller could keep a straight face when offering exemption for the established Church while in the same breath claiming, fairness to be at the heart of her proposals.

"It is not just the 'Church of England and Church in Wales' who "explicitly" stated strong opposition' as Mrs. Miller says, the Muslim Council of Britain along with most other faith groups also made equally strong representation."

The MCB is seeking an urgent meeting with the Culture Secretary to express the concerns of the Muslim community on the proposed legislation.

Cash Boost For Roads

Councils can plan how to spend their share of a £215 million fund for local road maintenance after funding allocations were published today by Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin.

The £215 million is part of a £333 million fund announced in the Chancellor’s Autumn Statement for essential maintenance to renew, repair and extend the life of roads in England. This funding is in addition to the £3 billion the government is already providing for councils in England between 2011 and 2015 for highways maintenance.

Mr McLoughlin said: "This extra money will support economic growth and development by helping local authorities to get the best out of their local road networks.

"This funding can be spent on measures to bring smoother, safer and more reliable journeys to the travelling public whether they are commuting to work or taking the children to school."

(CD)