I wonder at the people who call for the BBC to un-invite the BNP from the radio. What basis have they which does not use intolerance, or is illiberal or arbitrary? Some have claimed that they are an “illegal party” but other parties occasionally break laws and are not banished in the same way. The most credible argument is that it might cause an increase in racially motivated attacks. This well meaning idea opens the door to political movements that are contrary to the current government be labeled a threat to public safety and therefore banned. The same logic was used to temporarily ban Geert Wilders from the UK. If the ends outweigh the means in terms of public safety (a very utilitarian idea), we may as well change a police state as soon as can be arranged.

So, well done BBC for resisting an appeal to consequences.

AC1

(And I don’t agree with the BNP, obviously. “I disapprove of what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it.”)