27 April 2017

Theresa May criticised by Muslim MPs for scheduling general election during Ramadan

Prime Minister Theresa May has been accused of ignoring Muslim voters after she scheduled the General Election in the middle of Ramadan.

Muslim politicians from Labour and the Scottish National Party fear reduced voter turnout among Muslims on June 8, which falls during the holy month where fasting from dawn to sunset takes place.

Ramandan takes place between May 26 and June 24.

Rushanara Ali, Labour MP for Bethnal Green and Bow, said: "The fact that the general election will fall in the middle of Ramadan is not ideal.

"Holding an election during Ramadan means there could be a disproportionate effect on voter turnout in those constituencies with a sizeable Muslim population.

"If anyone thinks that their ability to go and vote will be affected, I urge them to register for a postal vote." [Evening Standard] Read more