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I think religion has served to alienate and repress more demographics in societies rather than allowing people to express themselves, so all religious symbols and clothing should be banned in public to help curb this repression.

I agree it should be banned

so what's with the gloves? what century are we in?

Laura is right in saying nobody should tell her how to dress, the only main problem the majority of people have with the full muslim dress, is the covering of the face.
A covered face can be intimidating, and blocks communication since you cannot see the wearers facial expressions. One of the ways in which humans (especially children) gage interaction is with body language, this includes facial expressions.
I would never dictate to anyone how they should or should not dress, but I do believe that other peoples feelings should be taken into consideration when choosing to cover your face in public.

I don't think the veil should be banned because I don't think it has anything to do with any one else how each individual dresses or what they believe in and people should mind their own bissness and get on with their own lifes

I only wish she could show her face a bit. Banning veils somehow doesn't sound very liberating. A positive change of opion can only occur through constructive discussions.

Everybodies way of dress should be there choice nobody questions nuns or popes or goths or the endless list.. There are far bigger issues than people pin pointing how muslim women choose to dress #happy to see majority of ppl don't have an issue!

All human beings should be free in their believe, we should be free of any discrimination and don't hate each other for any difference in religion, as we all are brothers from the same father and mother. We have to liberate from the self bondage.I believe that no one can enforce other to accept something he already refused.God created us different in everything "e.g. sex, race, color, mother tongue, abilities, mind, etc." so why in doctrines and beliefs? “If it had been thy Lord's will, they would all have believed, - all who are on earth! Wilt thou then compel mankind, against their will, to believe! “Qur’an Karim Surat Yunus 99 verses
Dear brothers and sisters; God will governs us at the Doomsday in all what we were different.
Best wishes to all of you;

laura stuart, "cultural" apparel that screams disenfranchisement from society , is a walking billboard, of non integration, a neon sign of contempt for our open and liberal society.
It is a symbol of an ' absolutely intolerant ' ideology, ie try to wear a cross in Saudi Arabia
Nowhere in the Quran does it state wearing the niquab, or burkha.
The wearing of a small cross, you probably can t see, or practicing tai chi
is not the same, it is stating imposition, both on the larger community, and the wearer,(whether they admit it or not).
It is always being said, you can rely on Islam to blur the lines, to gain a perceived advantage, sadly this is another example.

Laura
You are free to wear what you like within the law.
That said you've not a lot of control of what others think about you, none of us do, and you don't score points for pointing out shortcomings in other Religions particularly with Atheists like myself.
I'd rather see a persons face, anyone wearing a veil, scarf, or one of those guy Fawkes masks creates a distance between themselves and those about them.

I have no problem with how people dress I have 1 problem I can't understand why we have this issue and allow this in Briton to go unchecked?

“Please, correct me if I'm wrong”, but I understand that most Imams and clerics of Islam have declared a holy jihad [Holy war] against the infidels of the world and, that by killing an infidel, (which is a command to all Muslims) they are assured of a place in heaven. If that's the case, can you give me the definition of an infidel?'
The answer, 'Non-believers!'

“So, let me make sure I have this straight”. All followers of Allah have been commanded to kill everyone who is not of the Muslim faith so they can have a place in heaven. Is that correct?' Answer Please LAURA or any other Muslim

Please ban it like france

No need for it. Should be banned. If I walk in to a bank in a motor bike helmet I'd be asked to remove it. Same rule should apply.

the face veil should be banned, how can you possibly identify anyone wearing it. It does not have to be worn as part of the muslim religeon.

i think women shouldn't be allowed to wear the face scarves, it is not okay for people to wear baliclavers so why should it be okay for people to wear face scarves even if it is for religious reasons. religion is religion, it wont kill us putting ours safety in danger could.we dont know who is hiding behind it, it could be a disguise. everyone should have the right to feel safe.

Hypocrites! Don't mind if a woman walks around hardly wearing anything but can't handle a woman who hardly leaves anything uncovered? Sounds like men in the West rule the world.

I think the veil should be banned in the UK. Overt religious clothing such as the veil do nothing but alienate different communities. It has no place in 2011.

I think the full cover of the face is NOT GOOD. There's so many Muslims that ware a head scarf. Strongly desagry and in modern life this is unexepatble.

if the person wants to walk in the light of Islam and express that by their clothes then they should go to where if does not offend others,this is Christendom and we used to be proud of that fact

I believe that the veil should be banned because the Abrahamic traditions of Judaism, Christianity and Islam require women to dress modestly but NOT to cover themselves completely. Religious symbols that do not hide identity should be allowed, but anything that completely hides the person from public view is wrong.

Why is it that motorcyclists have to take off their helmets in banks and face veil wearers don't? It's wrong. It creates an air of suspicion. The face is hidden and so is identity. If everyone walked around with tights over their heads or balaclavas there would be outrage. Yes, these veils should be banned in the UK.

NO! it is not necessary and we find it offensive to wear it in a Christian country.

The face veil is the most offensive thing on the street today. Women should be proud of what they are and men should have enough good taste to keep their eyes to themselves. There is a massive difference between flaunting your body and denying your very humanity. It is a backward and barbarous manifestation of attitudes which should have been left where they belong - in the wackier anchorite sects of the dark ages.

Laura says in this film that her clothing is 'non-negotiable' and that "no man can tell her me to dress"...but that's just what they are doing. The rules around how Muslim women are supposed to dress come from men. Although many women say that they choose to wear face veils, they are ultimately a symbol of male oppression much more than they are of a religion.

No, you should not be free to express your religion when the basis of its teachings clashes directly with the laws of our country. The meaning of the word chrsitian is disciple. We are meant to make ourselves like Jesus - kind, caring, forgiving and fair. People make silly traditions and rituals, Jesus did not. God made us beautiful and gave our faces expression in order to communicate. If God had wanted womens faces covered he would have created them with a veil or no face at all. The woman in this video makes me very sad and shows me what a lost country England has become.

There are 2 opinions in Islam regarding the veil, compulsory and not compulsory, who would turn heads more, a woman exposing her legs, breast, face etc or a woman completely covered?

trouble is Laura given half a chance your faith would impose your look on everyone... freedom and democracy are not noticable in mordern islamic states

No, why should she get special treatment from the rest of us? Our face is our window to our mood, accentuating conversation and Identifying who we are. I would NOT be allowed to wear face hiding equipment such as a helmet. If she feels so strongly then she should go and live in a country where it is allowed

I think it is a symbol of male dominance and a way to oppress women. It encourages gender inequality and, in today's sociological advanced society, this concept is unacceptable. Extreme tools of repression within religions should be banned as a way to stop female alienation.

This is difficult. People should be able to wear what they want. However, covering your face creates a barrier to others in society and creates suspicion and distrust. This is dangerous for society.

you shouldnt be allowed to have your whole body covered, people that do that could be carrying any weapons, i understand its ther religion but why cover your whold body and only be able to see your eyes? it should be against the law as there allowed to walk into shops covered up but other people are not allowed to have hoods or hats on in shops.

Laura makes a very inaccurate statement that the complete face covering veil is not required. This is false. I know many muslims in this sect of Islam who are men and they require their wife (or wives) to where this very outfit. They openly admit that this is the rule of Allah. Make no mistake that it is completely required, they are not allowed to show any of their skin. They can't go out in public without it on. It's so sad that they are forced to do this. Muslim women are also not allowed to talk with men out in public either. Just go up to a muslim woman in this kind of outfit and try and talk to her, she'll scurry away scared, for fear of being beaten or killed by her husband. Look people, let's get beyond this, this is NOTHING more than the oppression of women. In a supposed 'free' society like Britain, we should not allow this. It's obvious that these people believe strongly in this completely absurd aspect of Islam (that likens women to the same status of a sheep, a possession of the husband), perhaps those of us who can see beyond their religious mind control should help the poor women who are trapped by making it illegal. I am totally for it.

It's all very well for a western woman to dress in a full veil and say that she chooses it, but I feel this is staggeringly naive and arrogant when in many countries where Islam is the primary religion, the choice for women is either cover up, or face serious consequences, possibly even death.

Also she says no one has the right to tell her to dress, but surely that is an immediate contradiction, since she is actually being told by Muhammad what to wear?

I wish people would think for themselves. Laura clearly isn't.

Religion- everyone should be free to practice whatever religion that they wish . However the face veil is not mandatory and if I walked around with a balaclava on so people can only see my eyes I would get arrested why should it be different for this woman

It's all very well for a western woman to dress in a full veil and say that she chooses it, but I feel this is staggeringly naive and arrogant when in many countries where Islam is the primary religion, the choice for women is either cover up, or face serious consequences, possibly even death.

Also she says no one has the right to tell her how to dress, but surely that is an immediate contradiction, since she is actually being told by Muhammad what to wear?

I wish people would think for themselves. Laura clearly isn't.

I agree with your questioning the logic of a priest becoming someone else in the act of communion; many Christians including myself view communion as an act of sharing; resources, comfort, and suffering.We become more than ourselves in communion.
But, who commands a woman to be covered? In Christian history this was also a feature; Paul commanded a woman to veil herself ( and a man to shave..), reflecting the social norms of his time. Is this commandment to cover yourself not given by a man, also claiming higher authority than he owns? We are all equal before God who will guide you directly.

It should be banned. As a society we can't by law consent to assault and the wearing of the full veil, along with relevant religious notions surrounding it, amount to an assault on the equality of women in every aspect, regardless of if the individual chooses to do.

You cant consent to having your hand cut off, likewise, you should not be able to consent to having your face effectively cut off

There is no need for a full face veil, it is not stated and is not required that it be worn to be a muslim woman. so why is it worn? by choice?

firstly, we live and build a society that uses our face for identification and security, if we all had veils and couldnt be identified, there would be mayhem. the criminals among us would exploit this to thier own ends.

secondly, if we all wore veils, balaclavas, and obscured our faces then were does our individualism go? we all become a faceless bunch of automons. with nothing but opinion to seperate us.

as for Laura herself, i cant help feeling she is exploiting the situation as a white northen fully covered muslim. i have no dought in my mind, based on previous conversations with female muslim workmates,that she is partly responsible for the 'so called' anti-muslim sentiments felt in this country.

I dont think muslim women should cover thier face at all because this 21st century not relick of a lost agel

NO they should not in a Muslim based country fair enough, but not in britain if i was wearing a balaclaver in public Ie. went into a shop with it on, people would get a little paranoid. well that's how i feel when i see someone in a veil how do i know its not a terrorist or a gun man FRANCE and other country's have the right idea BAND VEIL'S (PS. I DONT MEAN TO OFFEND ANYONE WITH THIS COMMENT THESE ARE JUST MY VIEWS THANKS)

I sat next to a Coptic priest from Egypt, whilst travelling on an airplane recently. He was telling me that though a Christian, he had many Moslem friends. He explained that the covering of heads comes from the ancient
value of not allowing women to enter church with a hairdo which may be conceived as a 'crown' thus outdoing or being disrespectful to God, since women use their hair in various forms to make themselves more attractive.. This is the very basis of the many variations of the Burkha, though it has been dreadfully mis-used as a way to stop other men looking at their wives.

I have no particular view on veils in isolation - people can conduct themselves in whatever manner they choose as long as its safe, sane and consensual. If a bloke wants to wear a skirt, let him. A woman wants to dress as a comic book super-villain in black ....have at it.

But this particular example is just another manifestation of the divisive symbolic posturing which punctuates modern society. Everyone and anyone with a gripe conducts themselves as if their voice is the only voice to be listened to.

Negative, unhelpful, self absorbed and self indulgent idiocy.

I don't think that there should be restrictions on expressing religion in public, however I am disgusted that these vails can and are be worn in public. How would people feel if we all wore balaclavas whilst out and about.
Human rights are a joke in this country so I am sure nothing will change but I think 95% of the british population in the UK would agree on my comments above.
Please sort this country out before its too late!

I believe that everyone has a right to express religion, But it is up most ignorant to see muslims in the street staring at you through the veil, They (muslims) are covered head to toe and in the gowns and in way i feel uncomfortable walking through the town and say there are 3 or so walking towards you. Not only that (stereotyping here ) who knows what is under there i.e suicide bombers (rare case in england) but its all you here on the news and does get you thinking what could happen next i am from middlesbrough and while there are alot of nice muslims out there, There is also equally bad people out there and behind a veil it can be misleading man or woman???

Yes anywhere anytime that's why we came to world to worship Allah if somebody saying something without know anything about Islam it's really disappointed it's really important to get information first then everybody know how important is vail and
believing religioun

Wearing the veil and covering your face in an Islamic country (provided that is the requirement by law and everyone else is doing it): is Islamic. Wearing the veil and/or covering your face in the UK or Europe: is NOT Islamic. Let me explain why: I am a muslim born and raised in the Middle East. I have to say I was 'shocked' when I moved to the UK 6 years ago and saw the amount of veiled women here. It's not something I grew up with, ironically. Nowhere in the Quoran have I ever read that a woman should cover her hair or her face. Furthermore, it is clear in the Quoran that muslims should live in harmony and integrate within other cultures should they find themselves in a country/culture that is not their own. The Quoran also encourages mulsims not to attract attention to themselves, and not to be boastful. I feel, that when you move to a country that has different values to you then, and in accordance with the teachings of the Quoran, dressing in a veil does the following: 1) attracts more attention to you, 2) alienates you from the society you are living in and 3) it is a form of 'boasting' your religion and you're being "in the face" about it. As far as I'm concerned, that's the opposite of what the Quoran says. Also in the Quoran, muslims are encouraged to follow a middle path... 'extremism' isn't acceptable, yet I see more 'extremist' views in this country than in any country I have ever visited (apart from maybe Iran and Saudi!) You don't need to wear skimpy tops and shorts, but nor do you need to be covered from head to toe, in order to be respectful of your religion. Faith is a personal, and internal thing, it is between you and God, not you and the whole of society. It's not something to 'boast' about outwardly and make a point of by standing out like a sore thumb! I am expecting a lot of "thumbs down" for my comment from the British Muslim community (they can't seem to understand my own understanding of our religion), but I know my faith, and as they say: to each their own.

It should not be banned as people have the right to wear what ever they want to wear, altho I don't think it is necessary to cover the face but that is her choice. I can understand y it can come across intimidating as you cant see the facial expressions so it may b harder to connect with that person.

if you cover your face in public you are hiding your identity,
great if your a thief,

Hiding ones face is alien to the accepted norm in UK society with regards interpersonal communication. It can be considered an aggressive stance by others, it has nothing to do with religion or making someone a 'good' woman. Full face veils should be banned in the UK

No. I object strongly to the face veil. It is an outward sign of religion that also disguises. How can you recognise someone who you think has done you wrong? What if I were to turn up in a balaclava? How can you smile? We don't allow cars without number plates. If you turn up near me in a veil I will give you the treatment: 'Smile...... smile.' Oh come on - be a real person. Don't be a sucker for the sexists.

I have no objection to religious symbols per se. What I strongly object to is anyone covering their face in public. I feel the same about, for example, ski masks. However, whereas banks etc., can refuse admission to anyone wearing a ski mask or safety helmet, somehow, the exclusion does not apply to veiled Muslim women. Islam does not demand that women cover their faces, and we should not accept this in our British society. I think that saris, shalwar kameez, turbans, and even the hair veil, only add to the interest and variety of our country and their inherent modesty can only be commended. However, the niqab and burka should be totally banned. Personally, I would refuse to be, for example, treated by a doctor with a covered face.

I believe that it is a womans right to choose to wear the full muslim veil, and I can appreciate the virtues. However wearing this veil also means that a woman can be percieved as 'a-non person', without individual personality, because there is very little display of personality or 'individual character'. For this reason, although I believe it is a womans right to choose, I think a child should be allowed to freely enjoy childhood and therefore should not wear this veil whilst characterised as being a child. I would prefer to see it been taken by young adults as a symbol of choice and maturity. It should be a womans choice, to choose, always.

I have no problem with people displaying acts of faith. I am an atheist myself, but as a free country, I believe tolerance is one of our best qualities. However, I often feel intimidated by anyone covering their face - regardless of their race or religion. I feel that we shouldn't ban the veil as it is a display of faith, but I think covering the whole face is a bit too much.

Yes, but not when it makes me uncomfortable to look at a masked person and a none existence face, the human body has evolved by nature to react to facial expresions and comunication between humans and all animals, how would a pesons that cover there head and face react if i came into there personel space, into there childrens faith school, there shop, or work place wearing a covering over there head or face and or wearing a balaclaver with only the two eye holes showing, Rgards

Express it yes, sit red chair and criticise other peoples publicly, no. The tactic of using a white, former christian is pretty transparent and a lame way of making a point and doesn't stop her criticising christianity any less inflammatory, and i'm an atheist!

The question itself requires close scrutiny as it seems to be designed to encourage an opinion within a very narrow scope and perhaps could be considered leading in this respect, however, in general i have the opinion that as a reasonable person should acknowledge that, "freedom", has necessary conditions which when accepted and followed by all, makes that freedom accessable to all and not just the delicacy of the select few.
So, yes, all people should be free to express their religious beliefs in public if, and only if, those wishing to make a public expression do so without violating the freedoms of others in our society.
In short, "Do onto others", etc etc. Can i wear a balaclava throughout a normal days activities,IE shopping, at work, picking up kids at school?...well; yes, probably... but would i consider the impact of my concealment upon others?...yes.
Its time to grow up in the UK and our citizens need to be taught in school that we are one nation and although we may be autonomous in how we worship a higher power, the fundamental reality remains that we have all chosen to live together so lets work together for the benefit of all.

Firstly. If we'd travel to any of the muslim countries, would we be always allowed to dress how we like just because that is the way we normally dress? In many cases we would find ourselves in trouble for doing what is perfectly normal to us and should we ever try to challenge that there, in a best case scenario we'd be simply arrested and probably deported.

Secondly. I don't think I'm the only one who doesn't like the idea of being surrounded be people like Laura who while being able to identify everyone around her denying everyone else the same right.

Conclusion: Practice your religion at home or in the specific designated places but don't force it onto anyone else while in public. Simple.

To understand the face veil- One must understand the purpose of the veil in Islamic Law- which is 'Preserving or protecting the family Unit'
The face being the main source of female beauty - makes it the main risk factor for being interfered with- which can potentially destroy a family if done in harmful way - hence yes- the veil is a barrier - and scholars recommend that young women especially should cover the face if they feel strong enough to do so as this will be better for them and the comunity at large - the face veil need not be worn all the time- only needed in potentially threatening situations eg, public places.

Clearly this lady has not understood christianity correctly our vicers do not think they are on the same Par as God. How ever everyone has the right to follow which faith they choose.
I have a big problem with the face covering it is Intimidating,Offensive and scares children,I see these women driving cars with full vail, how can they see properly.They go into banks covered, yet helmets have to be removed. i have no problem with a hair covers women have been wearing scafs for years. But why black? younger Muslims wear colours which look attractice,and do not initimidate, this is just yet another issue to make us give in to them. Some of us are grossly offended with this face covering. It Should be band.

I strongly believe the 'Veil' as people are calling it which actually isn't like any veil but just black cloth, should definitely be banned in this country. As a woman it really makes my stomach turn when I see women in this country dressed from head to toe in heavy black material, especially during the summer when it must be very uncomfortable,apart from being ridiculous, sexist and way behind the times for women in our society today I think it is dangerous..anyone could wear that out fit and none of us can see who is underneath...its hilarious!..how can anyone communicate wearing such a costume in our society and how can we communicate with them?..

I am sorry to see someone CHOOSE to wear something that covers their entire body and face. For someone to accept (Qur'an Al Nisa 4:34) that they should 'obey' their man and accept to be 'admonished' and 'chastised' then this to me shows either an extremely low self esteem or even psychological problems.

This doesn't even begin to scratch the surface of - why someone would believe in the Christian god for years and years to suddenly say "actually no, I now believe in the muslim god" is absolutely beyond comprehension.
And before people start saying allah and the Christian god are one and the same - well that's simply tripe.

If allah and the Christian god are the same then what about the Hindu gods? or the Greek gods? or the Viking gods? I think they'd all argue to the death that there are many gods.

In the end... You say it's 'your choice' but 5 seconds later you say you're told that you need to cover your body... so... it's still a religious restriction... like .. do not eat pork.

Recommendation, see a psychologist. You might end up finding out that it has something to do with your parents, or an innate rebellious streak.

The standard, expected response is to say that we respect and tolerate everyone's religious beliefs. If true, however, this should be a reciprocal arrangement. There is also a difference between respecting beliefs and respecting behaviours. The majority of religious symbols (crosses, turbans, wrist bands, scarves and the like) state an affiliation to a religious or cultural group but do not overtly challenge the conventions and expectations of other groups. Almost uniquely, this is not the case with the full face covering of Muslim dress for women. It implies that the rest of us, males in particular, cannot be trusted to look upon a Muslim female without being overcome with lustful thoughts. It insults us all by implication, which is very difficult to accept in work-related, team-related contexts. Acceptance of the cultures of others works both ways. My understanding of Islam is that the veil is not compulsory. Therefore a person choosing to wear it does so in the knowledge that many other people will find it difficult and challenging to deal with. It is not, therefore, a neutral action.

A method of dress should never be an issue, if someone should choose to walk around naked, that itself should provoke no more comment than someone who opts to completely cover themselves, both options are highly questionable and laughable in equal measure. As the arguement is one with religious overtones, the root of this problem is based squarely in superstition, the basis of all religion.
I agree with the previous reply and would like to add, if you choose to believe in myth, keep it to yourself, no one is honestly bothered. Any religion serves to do very little for society other than frustrate, anger, and steal from the poor. It takes mothers sons and deprives rational people of sense.
Ban religious symbolism in society, totally, like smoking it is bad for your health and smells funny.

i think its putting islam in your face. its general manners to not run about in masks. if i was to walk arround in a balaclava i would get arrested

It's simple. I am also Brtish Femle convert to Islam. I would so love to take Laura (and I suggest that she does this) to places like Chechenia where women fighting for their rights are being murdered. All that is ASKED of all Muslims is to dress modestly. To be a Muslim is about being true to yourself, and not how you dress.

Muslim scholars say there there is nothing in the Koran about dress wxcept that people should dress modestly and in many Muslim countries women simply wear headscarves and conservative clothes. So why do some Muslims adopt what is a minority, Arab form of dress? It must be because they want to make a point about how pious they are to other Muslims, and to stress their religion to non Muslims. Strange that a European ex Christian should adopt such a view. Says more about her than her religion.

It should be band, it is an insult to females....

In europe the full face veil is a political statement, the wearer is stating that they reject the cultural norms of the country they reside in. Is there a god ? i for one am not sure but i respect peoples right to worship in their own way. The face veil however is not a form of religious worship.

I believe everybody should have the freedom to wear what they want to wear and i have no problem with people expressing their religious beliefs through their choice of clothing. I do however have a problem with women wearing the burka/veil like Laura is doing as i feel it is barrier to communication both to the wearer herself and to the public. I do not also feel it is necessary as a women can dress modestly without resorting to such measures.
I live in Walthamstow, East London where over the years i have noticed more and more women dressing like Laura, some women even have a sheet of material covering their face so their eyes are not even apparent. I find this very disturbing as in the same way as if someone were wearing a mask there is no way of being able to interpret the face of that person. I am not able to distinguish whether that person is looking at me or what their emotions are and it can be very intimidating. I once turned a corner and nearly bumped into a burka wearer at seven in the morning and i was momentarily very scared. The distressing effect this outfit has on others should also therefore be considered.

Balaclavas are illegal to some extent to cover the face can cover many things, I do not think the veil is appropriate. I understand it is there way of expression but society will stuggle to accept before saying that is not fair, this is society there is many other religions other than the religion in conversation that people will argue to accept. This just happens to be one.

As long as turbans, head-scarves and clothing do not endanger the wearers in the workplace, I cannot see why anyone should object.

Veils are a different matter. In this country, in the past,the only people who resorted to covering their faces were those who wished to conceal their identity and of course the reasons for that were usually political.

Also, according to various learned Muslims, the veil has nothing to do with Islam. Muslim women are expected to cover themselves, which means their bodies, arms and legs. Their hair should also be covered but covering the face has nothing to do with religion.

Women walking around with hidden faces are abhorrent to me and I wish the the wearing of the veil in this country could be banned. Hiding one's face and therefore one's identity is an alien concept to me.

We read in the Quran:
“Say to the believing men that they should lower their gaze and guard their modesty: that will make for greater purity for them: and Allah is well acquainted with all that they do.” [Q 24:30]
“And say to the believing women that they should lower their gaze and guard their modesty; that they should not display their beauty and ornaments except what (must ordinarily) appear thereof; that they should draw their veils over their bosoms except to their husbands, their fathers, their husbands’ fathers, their sons, their husbands’ sons, their brothers or their brothers’ sons, or their sisters’ sons, or their women, or the slaves whom their right hands possess, or male servants free of physical needs, or small children who have no sense of the shame of sex; and that they should not strike their feet in order to draw attention to their hidden ornaments. And O ye Believers! Turn ye all together towards Allah, that ye may attain Bliss.” [Q 24:31]

Veil worn by Muslim women is a highly sensitive and contentious issue. The Western world does not understand why Muslim women should cover themselves from head to toe, and continue to suffer discomfort, among others, in humid and fetid climate. Muslims counter that wearing of veil is not at all uncomfortable for their women and that it is an obligation that Allah has imposed on them so that they may be able to maintain their physical and spiritual purity.

Unfortunately, Laura is not a good candidate for this issue.
Her unlucky past has weakened her, made her insecure and made her question her faith ? Faith is always blamed when things go wrong in someones life. She should have questioned herself instead of looking for excuses & blame.
She's being exploited, brainwashed, how can she say she is Muslim first ? Islam is an ideology, not a religion, she's human first, then a woman, then a mother, etc, belief should be lower down the list, by saying she's a muslim first says many things about her & her fellow believers and wearing a garment which covers her face is the least of our worries.......

I personally believe the veil should not be banned, it does not harm anyone, the only people it seems to do harm to are those who are insecure about themselves and so believe everyone else has something to hide.

islam isnot oppresive im 17 i wear a scarf and in future plan to wear the veil and also the long dress to i already wear a scarf (hijab) and non of you are going to say or do anything to stop or offend me...go critisize some other religion that really does oppres women etc, everyone just pick on islam as they know its the real and righteoues religion!!! HA! an dplus in bible it metnion OWMEN TO OVER UP AND PROTECT DIGNITY AND MODESTY !!!

My view is; there's a high level of fear in the UK, people feel extremely uncomfortable with something that they simply aren't used to. I don't think it's necessary to make people feel intimidated. Arguably, wearing a veil to cover one's face isn't meant to come across as something to intimidate, however, there's no denying that it does. It's my personal belief that religion is a guideline that mankind has created to offer piece of mind to whoever seeks it. The very idea of a Christian woman converting to Muslim faith is an idea that seems like an excuse to offer ease to the situation.

I believe like the majority of British people that it should be band.The Goverment should consider how the public feel when womens faces are covered. I am a very moderate caring ,open minded person but when I see someones face covered I feel very scared. I was once shopping in Harrods in the summer when I saw so many as I moved around the store that I left as I felt so threatened. I had no idea who these people where if there had been a security scare no point rewinding the video. No one is aloud to walk around the store with balaclavas on.I once had a shop and someone came in with her husband I felt I had no rights to object but someone was in my shop who I could not identify. I think this Ban should happen very soon. What would harrods reaction be if hundreds of British people went to Harrods covering our faces and bodies would they allow us in on Mass. Would the store not feel threatened as I do. Please can I ask can a shop owner object to the burker or is this breaking the Law? Can you put a sign on your shop no Burkers. Shop keepers put up signs no Helmets.Contratulations to France and I hope we see sense
soon and the Goverment read all these replies from the general public.

This is hideous and repressive and as I western career woman I thank god that I was born in this country whenever I look at this garment. This does not belong in a western society the same way that I would not go to Saudi Arabia and walk down the beach with a bikini on and expect them to accommodate my western beliefs. This goes against everything we believe in (and fought for) and should be banned immediately.

And they say we ban veils to free the repressed yet they repress my choice to wear it. So hypocritical.

I became a Christian after spending time reading Jesus' words. I have discovered that in every faith, down through history, man-made teachings have been introduced in some form or other. These teachings always misrepresent the love of God and create unnecessary tensions and hostility within society. In the words of Jesus, quoting from Isaiah ...
"They worship me in vain, their teachings are but rules taught by men" (Gospel of Mark, chapter 7, verse 7).
Surely the covering of oneself from head to foot in black, leaving just a slit to peer out of, is a clear representation of a "man made" imposition of strict rules.
Whatever the religous reason given for this form of dress, it is actually the wearing of a "mask", whether it is described that way or not. The wearing of a mask is a deliberate intention to hide one's face, and it quite understandably has a significant effect on the way we are able to interact with that person - and also is an indication of their attitude towards others around them. It sends out all the wrong messages, and I hope our Government will protect everyone from being subjected to its use.

It was a pity that Laura was stumbled by Christians, that is the problem when we look to man/woman rather then looking to God.
Concerning veiling of women, being totally veiled they could be hiding something, this could be a security risk!
veiling in both new and Old testaments was rarely in public; prior to the "Flood"(Gen. 6) "the sons of God saw the daughters of men that they were fair" (They must have been unveiled to see them, as being fair, or beautiful)Sara Abrahams wife was unveiled, when they went down into Egypt " Abram said to Sara say not I am his wife, for they will see that you are a fair woman to look upon, and will kill me for your sake(She was Abrams half sister) she therefore was unveiled . When Abrahams servant was bringing Rebekah to Isaac, when she saw Issac she took a veil and covered herself(out of respect to Issac( Gen 24)This was not the norm. In the New testament women's heads are to be covered in Christian worship, this symbolises the man being the head of the woman God being the head of the man.(1 Cor.11)St. Paul said "let it be the hidden man of the heart,not the outward adorning (1 Timothy)
To sum up in public woman are to be unveiled, in public prayer and worship their heads are to be covered.

she herself is contradicting, "no man should tell us what to wear" then say "we are commanded to cover up" i think that it shouldnt be allowed to be worn in pubic, they should all get a life and live it to the MAX!!!!

I am amazed that so many people have posted that I should not be free to choose my clothing. Regarding covering the face and crime, I am sure any search for statistics on how many crimes are committed by Muslim women wearing niqab would uncover the truth that we are law abiding people. So why do some people here talk about the Taliban as oppressors of women but at the same time demand laws that would oppress my freedom of choice to wear what I like? That seems a great hypocrisy to me and makes that person an oppressor of women equal to the Taliban.

This is a disgrace! You live the the United Kingdom we should not have to put up with all these burka's!
You need to live by our christian rules.
I sure as hell know I could not walk around with a cross round my neck in a Middle eastern muslim state.

This is England..so they should not wear it religion or not.. in there countries if an English woman doesn't wear there gear she would be arrsted so we should arrest those here that wear it.. that is only fair..

In Saudi, women are not allowed to wear certain items / or not wear certain items. In England we have been terrorised by thugs of all ethnicities covering their faces and escaping recognition.
These are two of the reasons that in the UK we can pass a law regarding dress and expect it to be obeyed.

what the hell??? why does some people go on tv and say things like this?
the point of why women have to cover up is to keep control over them.
I think if they want to dress up as a ninja then they can, in their own house.

She looks like a bank robber, this is an anchor from my childhood therefore I am very cautious of her. I also have no idea why she wants to cover her face and as I have no visible signs of none verbal communication I do not trust her. Why does she want to portray this image??????????

I completely do NOT agree with anything this woman now believes. She has been seduced into these beliefs through her own personal need for a certainty. She is deluded into believing their ideas are now her own, just like any other cult follower. She has become closed minded and therefore willing to submit. I abhore it!

This is England not KSA , its more then enough that now we have mosques built in this country, will Saudi allow foreigners to built Churches ???
Let them go and apply this where they belong , not here ...

BAN THE BURKER IN BRITAIN

Laura Stuart is highly offensive to me and,I would say, most intelligent women. Nobody can tell her what to wear? Religions consist of manmade, supersticious, controlling rituals that tell you what to do. She is a fool to believe that she is behaving freely. Grow up woman and use your brain

Samantha has said exactly what I was going to say!
The opposition to wearing a full face veil is not religious in my view. It is about the need to be open and to show respect for those that you wish to communicate with. Facial expressions are essential when humans are communicating. I need to see your facial expressions to verify your words. Wearing a veil is like turning your back on someone. By the way - how can you confirm that the video was you actually speaking? I found it very sinister and unsettling!
Also may I say that if a "christian" had said anything about your Imam (like you said about the Priest)it would have been blown up it religious prejudice.

It should be Banned, have respect for Us, show your face.
what a State, have a look in the mirror, you look shocking.
If it was White would you still wear it (Re: KKK).
Take it OFF and grow Up.
why would you want to get involved in a repressive religion.

The veil has nothing to do with religion so why wear it, It just intimidates people and creates a reaction which then presents itself in verbal comments. lots of shops and banks inparticula state you cannot enter wearing masks or helmets yet veils are permitted what is the difference? so I say Ban the veil.

Let's be clear here - only a small...very small percentage of muslim wear the full veil and yet is seems to the a hot topic debating issue I'm a Muslim and I agree that it certain public areas it would be appropriate not to wear the veil, but I also fully embrace the British principal of freedom. If someone wants to wear a veil and they have the freedom to do so!

You don't allow Islamic women wear the veil in the western world and yet you let women of other religions like Christianity (Nuns)wear their religious clothings, even the veil. You should be ashamed of yourselves, everyone is equal and should have the right to wear what they want, especially for
religious reasons.

Do people have the right to walk around naked? Do people have the right to walk around in S&M gear? If 2 gay guys walked naked down Brick Lane in Tower Hamlets of London, I am sure that it would be the Muslim community who would be the first to demand social responsibilities. Why should Muslims be exempt from the very responsibilities that they demand in others? Liberty doesn't mean that we can do whatever we want.

The question we should be debating is whether the burqa/veil are harmful or offensive enough to join the list of things that we already find unacceptable in the public domain? I think they are. They are an act of discrimination, of de-humanisation. They are not religious symbols but symbols of misogynistic, oppressive attitudes. They have no place in British society and if a small percentage of Muslim women had to sacrifice a part of their liberty for the sake of a cohesive society, then wouldn't they be integrating with the rest of us?

No comments needed its all been said, i will say it should be banned for security reasons, all others have said what i might have on some points, so i'm happy to let it go at that.

islam is responsible for the fear created by islam. islam is a cult, a dogma just like christianity and doesn't deserve any protection from any criticism. Personally I will not have any contact with a person who doesn't show their face and that is my right.

Expression of faith can be in many ways. If one is going to bloke a public thoroughfare while holding prayers that is wrong. if one is going to creat noise nuisance and disturb people that is wrng or play and sing loudly, that is wrong. If one is going to be covered from head to toe without showing the face, that is wrong. If one os partially dress up to announce the religious affiliation but have all the make up for display and tight fitting dress and ankles and hands etc. showing, then that is wrong because it does not comply to the requiremnts for a Muslim code. Anything that is decent and does display the face of a person is and must be allowed. A Nanga Sadhu or naked sadhu cannot be allowed here though allowed in India.

Im not a religous person,so i dont care about the reasons behind wearing the veil,but i do believe the veil should not be worn ,how are we supposed to identify these people if needs be,what about proof of age when buying booze,or committing a crime whilst driving but not being able to proove it because of the veil.

Beauty is defined by someones face. If someone has a beauty face they will attract attention. When a Muslim women wears the veil by personal choice she is defiantly scoring points with God. She is getting close to God by minimising sin. I am a muslim girl and I dress modestly and always wear a headscarf when I'm out. But I feel it's not enough for my religion. I wish I was strong enough to wear the veil like Laura. But because of all this political view I don't and my husband won't allow me to wear it for my own safety. I know people that wear it but take it of when they use public transport for the own safety.

This seems incredible that she is aloud to wear her religeous artifacts , which cover 99.9 of her body, where a Christian lady was asked to remove her small crucifix from around her neck.

Several points here. Having Christian parents and a bad experience of church and marriage doesn't necessarily mean this lady was a Christian in the first place (as Billy Graham once said 'being born in McDonalds doesn't make you a hamburger!') Secondly, the main issue for a lot of people is the anti-social aspect of the veil-the facial image is how we recognise one another. Is it required in the koran? If it is, then why don't all muslim women wear it?

I don't believe in women having to cover nearly every inch of their bodies I think it's ridiculous, I'd rather be dead than have to go around like that. I don't think you should be parading around in public like a caged animal.

The veil should be banned for the same reasons that it is not allowed for someone to walk into a shop with a motorbike helmet on. Also, imagine what kind of country it would be if EVERYONE walked round with their whole bodies covered? How ridiculous.

Yes. What's it do with the next person how we look? It's the way we behave in expressing our beleifs that matters and shouldn't be used for our egos to act higher than thou! Can you imagine a fine just for wearing a cross around your neck? It certainly isn't there to keep vampires at bay! Must be something to be a spiritual revolutionist of your time eh...only to be killed by your opposers. I can just see it now...folk wearing silver nooses around their necks in 2000yrs to come as they speak up for all those so called witches hung for their pagan ways? Jesus would be horrified to see it now - folk wearing such symbols to portray his awful death for surely he'd prefer the star of david!

I agree that the veil should be taken off where identity is needed in banks and such. As a biker with a helmet on I surely wouldn't be able to go into a tesco garage with it on let alone a bank when asking for £! But individual symbolism is certainly ok. I don't see any sand getting blown in our eyes on high streets though - is it needed here? If it's used to hide a beautiful woman's face so what - what kind of religion is this if it's uses veils for this reason...to be so egotistical as to hide behind a peice of cloth if they think the next person is gonna look up to them just for that?! Are their men so insecure they think their woman should be hidden? The eyes can speak a thousand words so I doubt its gonna stop them even if they did want to!

Ironic that you're talking about public expression when you are totally suppressing your public female identity.
Why do you think ou should be invisible in order to be respected? Can't men respect you if they see you?