Around 40 members of the racist English Defence League tonight attacked a peaceful protest outside the French Embassy, opposing the introduction of a ban on the niqab or face veil in France.

Young Muslim women were joined by students and trade unionists on the protest called by UAF and One Society Many Cultures and supported by the British Muslim Initiative, Islamic Forum of Europe, Islam Expo and the Enough Coalition.

They carried placards reading: “Defend religious and cultural freedom” and “Face veil – a woman’s right to choose”.

EDL thugs launched a physical attack on the peaceful protest before being surrounded by police and led away.

UAF joint secretary Weyman Bennett said:

It is unacceptable that a group of racist thugs has attacked a demo calling for freedom of religious and cultural expression for Muslim women.

We believe that by targeting Muslims with measures like the niqab ban, French president Nicolas Sarkozy is opening the door and providing dangerous encouragement to racist and fascist groups. Today’s events bear that out.

It is clear the EDL is building a street thug movement that aims to smash anyone who stands up against racism, fascism and Islamophobia. We will continue our efforts to oppose them.

The protest outside the French embassy was called to mark the day that the niqab ban came into force in France.

The ban contravenes Muslim women’s freedom of religion. We believe free and democratic societies should allow people to express their faith and culture however they choose.

Although there are no proposals to introduce such legislation in Britain, the ban on the niqab in France has provoked Islamophobic discussions and campaigns here in Britain.

Unite Against Fascism, 11 April 2011

See also “Londoners condemn France burqa ban”, Press TV, 11 April 2011

Update:  Over at the Casuals United blog you can find the EDL boasting about their unprovoked attack on the peaceful protest outside the French embassy.