Mr Justin King
Sainsbury's
Chief Executive
33 Holborn
London EC1N 2HT

1st October 2007

Dear Mr. King,

I welcome your very sensible decision to allow your staff who follow Islam, not to handle alcohol if they choose. I am sure you are aware that this is a complex area in Muslim law and there is a wide range of opinions and views. Many times the issue boils down to the individual's preference.

Your initiative though small, is a significantly important and positive step towards helping to integrate our diverse communities into the mainstream whilst respecting and accommodating their religious and cultural preferences. Such gestures go a long way in enhancing community cohesion.

This pioneering initiative will certainly boost the morale of the British Muslim workforce which makes a significant contribution to our economy. We call upon them to appreciate this development and remind them not to misuse this generous accommodation.

I pray many more companies and businesses will follow your good example.

Thank you.

Shaykh Ibrahim Mogra
Chair – Inter Faith Relations Committee