Communities Secretary Michael Gove has named five groups that will be reassessed against the government’s new definition of extremism.

Speaking in the House of Commons, Gove said two far-right groups – the National Socialist Movement UK and Patriotic Choice – and three Islamist groups – the Muslim Society of Britain, Cage and Mende – were “something we should be concerned about” group.

Watch live: Gove’s reaction to extremist statement to MPs

After the government’s speech Published new definition Turning to extremism this morning, the minister said it was “vital that we do not inadvertently or ignorantly fund or support organizations that are themselves extremist”, as has been the case in the past with “extremist groups and behaviour” They try to portray themselves as a moderate voice representing the majority or mainstream opinion.”

Gove also sought to reassure critics that the plan was “in no way intended to restrict freedom of speech, religion or belief”, saying that gender critical campaigners, trans campaigners, people with conservative religious views and environmental protest groups would not be included.

But, he added: “Whether intentionally or not, the government cannot in any way sponsor, subsidize or support organizations or individuals who oppose the freedoms we cherish.”

The new definition describes extremism as “promoting or advancing an ideology based on violence, hatred or intolerance” with the purpose of “denying or undermining the fundamental rights and freedoms of others” or “undermining, overturning or replacing the UK’s free parliamentary system” . Democracy and Democratic Rights”.

It also includes those who “deliberately create a permissive environment for others to achieve” those goals.

The update is part of a ministerial campaign to counter Islamist and far-right extremism, which has intensified since the incident. Israel-Hamas War.

But some critics worry it could have a “chilling effect” on free speech, while others say it’s not enough and the law needs to be changed to tackle extremism.

Mr Gove identified five specific groups that will be subject to further scrutiny once the new definition is introduced.

After warning of “increasingly worrying activity on the far right”, the minister said: “In the House, I am sure we would agree that groups like the National Socialist Movement UK and Patriotic Alternative promote neo-Nazi ideology, advocate coercion and Deportation, white ethno-states, and the targeting of minority groups to intimidate are exactly the types of groups we should be concerned about and whose activities will be evaluated against the new definition.”

After saying that Islam should not be confused with the “totalitarian ideology” of Islam, he added: “Organizations such as the Muslim Society of Britain (the UK affiliate of the Muslim Brotherhood), as well as Cage and Tinker, cause people to Concerns about Islamist tendencies and views.

“We will hold these and other organizations accountable, assess whether they meet our definition of extremism and take action as appropriate.”

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