I agree that one has to defend free speech on the basis that 'I disagree with what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it'.

On that basis, while I find the BNP site awful and hate ridden, banning it is an infringement of free speech.

My concern is that many people are only defending 'Inigo' because they agree with what he says. His views are reprehensible, ignorant and in my view prejudiced. I will defend his right to say those things, but he did also bring his employer into the equation by slating their HR department. So he did somewhat bring this firestorm upon himself, and it is then difficult to claim it is 'his own business'.

I would have greater relish in standing up to the bullies trying to oust him from his job if he made it clearer that he is against any form of prejudice in the workplace, and in favour of equal opportunities.
Peter Lake | 17.08.06 - 9:36 am | #

Peter, I don't ready ConservativeHome as a rule so I really don't have an opinion on what he says. I reported the story simply because of the freedom of speech angle. I agree with you re the BNP site - I have visited it and ready what they have to say, including their manifesto, and I also cannot stand them but I agree with you that they have a right to exist and to voice their opinions.
wonkotsane | Homepage | 17.08.06 - 6:19 pm | #