Islamism and democracy incompatible: Wilders

Islamism and democracy are “incompatible”, Dutch far-right politician Geert Wilders said today.

The 46-year-old Freedom Party leader spoke at a press conference in central London after showing his anti-Islamic film 'Fitna' at the House of Lords.

He said: “Islamism and democracy are incompatible. The more Islamism we have, the more freedom we will lose and this is something worth fighting for.”

Mr Wilders called for an end to immigration to Europe from Islamic countries but said Muslims who agreed to obey the law of the land would be welcome to stay.

He said: “To Muslims who do stay, I would say ’Follow our laws and you are welcome to stay’.”

He also said that, if elected Dutch Prime Minister, he would seek to introduce a “first amendment” guaranteeing freedom of speech.

He said: “The right of freedom of speech is especially to listen to someone who is saying something you don’t want to hear.”

Mr Wilders attempted to enter the country last February but was detained on landing at Heathrow Airport and ordered to fly back to the Netherlands just over three hours later.

He had been due to show 'Fitna' but the UK's then-Home Secretary Jacqui Smith said his presence would “threaten community harmony and therefore public safety”.

The ban was later quashed and a subsequent visit to the British Parliament sparked demonstrations by Muslim protesters.

Mr Wilders said the film and subsequent discussion was attended by around 60 people.