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16/10/2009
Controversial Dutch MP In UK
Controversial right-wing Dutch MP Geert Wilders has arrived in the UK, after previously being refused entry.
During a press conference outside the Abbey Gardens buildings, opposite the Houses of Parliament in Westminster, Mr Wilders described has arrival in Britain as a "victory for freedom of speech".
He also openly criticised Islamic ideology and defended his controversial call for the Koran to be banned in his home country.
However, there were angry scenes at the press conference, with around 40 Muslim protestors gathering to protest at the Dutch MP's appearance.
In February, the Freedom Party leader had been refused entry to the UK because his anti-Islamic views were seen as a potential public security threat.
However, this ban was later overturned on appeal.
A spokesperson for Home Secretary Alan Johnson said: "On this occasion, the Home Secretary is not minded to recommend that Wilders is denied admission to the UK.
"Clearly Mr Wilders' statements and behaviour during a visit will inevitably impact on any future decisions to admit him."
Mr Wilders arrived at Heathrow airport on Friday morning and is due to visit the House of Lords, after being being invited by UK Independence party peer Lord Pearson.
Mr Wilders is facing a trial in Holland for inciting hatred.
(KMcA/BMcC)
During a press conference outside the Abbey Gardens buildings, opposite the Houses of Parliament in Westminster, Mr Wilders described has arrival in Britain as a "victory for freedom of speech".
He also openly criticised Islamic ideology and defended his controversial call for the Koran to be banned in his home country.
However, there were angry scenes at the press conference, with around 40 Muslim protestors gathering to protest at the Dutch MP's appearance.
In February, the Freedom Party leader had been refused entry to the UK because his anti-Islamic views were seen as a potential public security threat.
However, this ban was later overturned on appeal.
A spokesperson for Home Secretary Alan Johnson said: "On this occasion, the Home Secretary is not minded to recommend that Wilders is denied admission to the UK.
"Clearly Mr Wilders' statements and behaviour during a visit will inevitably impact on any future decisions to admit him."
Mr Wilders arrived at Heathrow airport on Friday morning and is due to visit the House of Lords, after being being invited by UK Independence party peer Lord Pearson.
Mr Wilders is facing a trial in Holland for inciting hatred.
(KMcA/BMcC)
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