Until recently my work involved considerable contact with members the major faith groups in London. I have learnt about their beliefs, their culture and visited their places of worship. I am concerned at the levels of extremist (particularly Islamist) ideology. Government at both local and national level are pandering to Islamic groups and throwing funding at them, in a seemingly desperate attempt to prevent violent extremism. I am also worried about the continuing oppression of women,their views and rights as individuals. The Quran is clearly being interpreted, by men, to reinforce cultural and historical stereotypes of women. Matters of faith should be personal and completely removed from the political and organisation structure of the UK, particularly our education system.