'Appalled' Minister Demands Action on Charity Run Ban

The East London Mosque (ELM) and London Muslim Centre are facing a major inquiry after their recent Muslim Charity Run in Victoria Park, London, excluded women from participating. Communities Secretary Steve Reed MP has strongly condemned the move, stating he was both “horrified” and “appalled” that women were “blocked” from the event, which was advertised as an “inclusive 5km race” but was only open to "men, boys of all ages and girls under 12."

The Communities Secretary called the exclusion “absolutely unacceptable” and confirmed that the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) is now actively reviewing the event to determine if it breached any UK laws or regulations.

"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," Mr. Reed told LBC Radio. He anticipates that if a breach is found, “sanctions will follow as appropriate.”

This weekend's event was the 12th annual Muslim Charity Run, described on the mosque's website as a “highlight in the East London Muslim calendar, raising thousands of pounds for vital causes across the UK and abroad.” Tower Hamlets Mayor Lutfur Rahman was quoted on the website congratulating participants.

Updated Information and Ongoing Investigations

The most significant update is the confirmation of the EHRC’s active involvement. Following a report, the commission is officially reviewing the matter. A spokesperson noted they “consider each complaint carefully and take action where appropriate.”

The central point of the inquiry will hinge on potential exceptions within the Equality Act 2010. The law provides specific exceptions that can apply to charities and religion or belief organisations, which could, in certain circumstances, allow events to be restricted to one sex only. The EHRC's investigation will determine if the ELM's charity run meets the stringent criteria for such an exception.

In addition to the EHRC probe, Tower Hamlets Council has taken swift action. Although the event was an independent event not organised by the council, a spokesperson confirmed they have “contacted East London Mosque to seek urgent clarification” regarding the age and gender restrictions. The council stressed its commitment to ensuring that “leisure and sporting activities in Tower Hamlets are inclusive and accessible.”

Both the East London Mosque and London Muslim Centre have been contacted by multiple news outlets for comment but have not yet released a public statement regarding the inquiry.

The East London Mosque and the London Muslim Centre are deeply rooted within the local British Bangladeshi community, particularly in the borough of Tower Hamlets, which is home to the largest concentration of people of Bangladeshi descent in the UK. Historically a cultural and religious anchor for this community, the mosque complex serves thousands of worshippers and hosts numerous community and charitable events throughout the year. The annual Muslim Charity Run, which is now the subject of an official inquiry, is one such high-profile event that draws significant participation and support from this local demographic and beyond.

Who is Steve Reed MP?

Steve Reed is the Labour Member of Parliament for Croydon North in South London, having first been elected in 2012. Prior to his current role as Shadow Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, he held several other prominent roles in the Shadow Cabinet, including Shadow Justice Secretary and Shadow Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government (the post he held when he made the comments about the charity run).