On Tuesday 28th March 2023, the Conservative party hosted a historic iftar reception at 10 Downing Street alongside the Conservative Muslim Forum.
The CMF Chairman, Hashim Bhatti said, "I am grateful to the Prime Minister for opening up his home and allowing us to open our fasts and pray. This sends a strong message to the Muslim community that the Conservative Party is their natural home. I feel honoured to have played a role in organising this reception much like the iftar at CCHQ last year. This sends all the right signals to the Muslim community and I look forward to working closely with the new party chairman".
Meanwhile, the Chairman of the Conservative party, Greg Hands MP, paid tribute to the late Lord Sheikh and highlighted the immense contribution that British Muslims make to the UK. He mentioned that the Muslim community in the UK donates £500m each year – of which £150m is donated just in the month of Ramadan. The Chairman went on to say that he was absolutely committed to stamping out the scourge of Anti-Muslim Hatred from society, once and for all.
The reception started with a musical recital from the Olive School in Hackney which was spearheaded by the Naz Legacy and closed with Qu'ran recitations from Shaykh Mohammed Ismail Bhuta.
The catering was provided by the renowned chef and entrepreneur Suleman Raza MBE who is no stranger to catering for high-profile events. His Spice Village chain has catered for many iftars this Ramadan including the Chelsea football club and the Department for Business & Trade. He was recently awarded an MBE for his services during the pandemic.
In attendance were over 100 leading Muslim figures including various Lords, MPs, party activists, friends groups and dignitaries.
