Christian and Islamic leaders in Oxfordshire have voiced strong opposition to an invitation extended to far right activist Tommy Robinson to speak at the Oxford Union. He is scheduled to participate in a debate supporting the motion 'This house believes the West is right to be suspicious of Islam' on 28 May. The Bishop of Oxford and Imam Monawar Hussain said they were 'disturbed and saddened' by the decision and urged the society to withdraw the invitation.

In a joint letter, the faith leaders described the event as untimely and divisive, warning that it comes amid rising tensions between communities. They emphasized their shared commitment to standing against hatred and racism and said the Union has a duty of care to the city’s diverse religious communities. They argued that Oxford has a long tradition of hospitality and should not provide a platform that could deepen divisions.

Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley Lennon, founded the English Defence League and has previous criminal convictions. His planned appearance follows a recent rally in London that led to multiple arrests. The Oxford Union, an independent student society with a history of hosting controversial speakers, has not yet commented on the calls to reconsider the invitation.