A Cabinet minister said he was “horrified” and “appalled” by a Muslim charity run that did not allow women to take part. Communities Secretary Steve Reed said it was “absolutely unacceptable” for women to be “blocked” from participating in the run in London’s Victoria Park on Sunday.
The community event was organised by East London Mosque and the London Muslim Centre. Billed on the Muslim Charity Run website as an “inclusive 5km race” welcoming “runners and supporters of all ages and abilities”, the event was open to “men, boys of all ages and girls under 12”.
Mr Reed said the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) will determine whether any laws or regulations have been breached.
He told LBC Radio: “I saw these reports … and I was as horrified as anybody else.
“It’s absolutely unacceptable that women should be blocked from going on a fun run in a public space when the men are allowed to go out there and do that.
“Now we have an equalities watchdog, I’m sure that they will be aware of this case.
“It’s getting a lot of publicity, and quite rightly so, and they will determine whether there has been any breach of the law or regulations, and then I’m sure sanctions will follow as appropriate. But speaking for myself, I was appalled.”
He added: “We do not want a situation in this country where men are allowed to do things that women are then barred from. We cannot tolerate that.”
The annual event is described on the mosque website as having become a “highlight in the East London Muslim calendar, raising thousands of pounds for vital causes across the UK and abroad, from local youth projects, food banks and refugee support to international humanitarian relief”.
The mayor of Tower Hamlets, Lutfur Rahman, is quoted on the website congratulating all those who took part.
He said: “Well done to each and every one of you, especially to the youngsters and the elders and the community at large for participating today.”
The council said it has contacted the mosque to “seek urgent clarification” after “reports about age and gender restrictions”.
The EHRC is understood to be looking into the matter following a report by the Mail on Sunday.
A spokesperson for the commission said: “The EHRC receives complaints each week about allegations of unlawful activity contrary to the Equality Act 2010. We consider each complaint carefully and take action where appropriate.”
Certain exceptions under equality law can apply to charities and religion or belief organisations, including potentially restricting events to one sex only.
A Tower Hamlets Council spokesperson said: “This was an independent event held in Victoria Park, not organised by the council.
“Like many local charitable events, it made use of the park space.
“Following the reports about age and gender restrictions, the council has contacted East London Mosque to seek urgent clarification.
“We are firmly committed to ensuring leisure and sporting activities in Tower Hamlets are inclusive and accessible.”
This weekend’s event was the 12th annual Muslim Charity Run.
East London Mosque and London Muslim Centre have been contacted for comment.