Poll: Majority Of Brits Support Burka Ban

The majority of the British public support banning the burka, with just 25 per cent opposing such a move, a new poll suggests.

The survey by YouGov found that support for a ban was strongest among older Britons, with an overwhelming 78 per cent of over-65s approving of such a move, compared to only 34 per cent of 18-24 year-olds.

Support is strong across the political spectrum, with a plurality of voters for every single party favouring a ban. Support is strongest among UKIP supporters, with 84 per cent wanting to prohibit the garment, while 66 per cent of Conservative voters agree.

Even among supporters of the left wing Labour and Liberal Democrat parties, support for a ban is stronger than opposition, with 48 per cent of Labour voters wanting a ban, compared to 37 against, and 42 per cent of Lib Dems in favour, as opposed to 30 per cent against.

The only two demographic groups likely to oppose a ban are 18-24 year-olds and people who voted Remain in the referendum.

The poll also found that Brits also favour banning the controversial swimwear the burkini, although by a smaller margin. A total of 46 per cent of people would support a prohibition on the burkini, with 30 per cent opposed.

The poll suggests a growing divide between the British people and the political class on this issue.

Last week, the British government ruled out following certain French towns in banning the swimwear, saying it sees “no need for measures restricting what people can wear in public places.”

Maria Miller, who chairs the Women and Equalities Committee, commented: “How each of us chooses to dress is a personal matter. In practice, the choices we make are usually driven by local cultural norms.”

Meanwhile London Mayor Sadiq Khan also opposed the burkini ban, saying on a visit to Paris last week: “I don’t think anyone should tell women what they can and can’t wear.”