A MUSLIM group, based in Halesowen, has issued a statement supporting the Government in the wake of criticism levelled against a ministerial letter urging Britain’s Islamic leaders to do more to tackle extremism.

The letter penned by communities secretary Eric Pickles was sent to 1,000 Muslim leaders after the attacks in Paris.

Some aspects of it were criticised by the Muslim Council of Britain including the "implication that extremism takes place at mosques".

But Dr Masood Majoka, local president of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, said they supported the Government's action to root out extremism.

He said: "We welcome the Government's acknowledgement that the Paris attacks have nothing to do with Islam. Islam is a religion of peace and those who carry out violence in its name are acting against Islamic teachings.

"The Government is right to be worried about extremism, be it from any source and it is the duty of all faith communities to support efforts for greater peace.

"The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community led by its Caliph, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, who is based in London, has always denounced violence and has a special focus on working to serve humanity.”

He said their Long Lane mosque was “a beacon of peace” and highlighted their commitment to encouraging young people to work for their local communities and to raise money for charities.

Dr Majoka added: “In our mosque our sermons are either in English or have a simultaneous translation provided in English. We engage the youth in activities and discussions and, as a result, we have absolutely no radicalisation in our mosques.

“The Ahmadiyya Muslim community is persecuted in Pakistan and other countries, so has been on the receiving end of radicalisation. Its response has always been one of prayer, patience and persistence and we live by our motto of Love for All Hatred for None.

"The Government needs to do more to stop preachers of hate from coming to the UK and critically spreading their messages of hate online and on satellite television. This is vital."