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@fallen-archie wrote:

If I may Creeky, I wonder if you have noticed an increase in the number of Muslims of all ages and sex wearing discreet clothing. I am not in a position to offer concrete evidence but several people around here have mentioned it and it does appear to be true. I cannot see how this open demonstration of ones religion or religious belief in any way supports a quest or desire for greater integration.

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My nearest large town is Crawley with 28% of the population belonging to non-white British ethnic groups, the largest proportion of those being Asian.  There has for a number of years been relatively large numbers of women wearing what can be described as 'discreet clothing' - ranging from simple headscarves to the full hijab.  I can't say I've particularly noticed an increase in the numbers recently but there again they have been part of the local 'scenery' for so long I wouldn't necessarily notice if they have.

All that aside I don't see the problem if the numbers have increased - are you suggesting that individuals should be ashamed of their religion and not wear clothing that identifies their religious beliefs!  Jews, Buddhists, Rastafarians, Sikhs and numerous other groups wear clothing that identifies their beliefs - do you think that hinders their desire to be British and part of the greater society?

Integration doesn't require everybody to be the same.