The Free Speech Union tells us:
If you need any more evidence that an Islamic blasphemy law has taken root in Britain, look no further than the case of Stephen Gray. It is truly one of the most extraordinary cases the FSU has ever come across.
A former police officer who gave 30 years of public service had a knock at the door from the police after his neighbour reported him for reposting something on Facebook.
In April, Stephen was convicted of being “grossly offensive” — an offence under the Communications Act 2003 — for reposting a joke about Islam.
The post featured an image of a rasher of bacon and a man in a turban, accompanied by the text: “Fun facts about bacon! People who eat bacon have a lower chance of marrying a 9 year old!”
While giving evidence, Stephen explained that the post was a reference to the marriage between the Prophet Mohammed and Aisha, which occurred when she was six and was consummated when she was nine. It was a satirical post, but also sought to make a serious point about child marriage.
But the district judge wasn’t having any of it. Stephen was ordered to pay £1,100 in fines, plus legal costs, and now has a criminal conviction.
I suppose it’s the bacon that was the problem. I doubt the judge would have done the same about a sober essay on Islam and child marriage, but jokes are another matter. I have to admit I’m not hugely impressed by this joke myself, not least because “9 year old” obscures the issue. The joker forgot the girl part – it’s 9 year old girls who are handed over to adult men.
But should it be treated as a crime? Of course not.
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