Solicitors who have experience of sharia law were today urged to take part in an independent review examining whether the religious code is being misused within Britain.

The government-commissioned sharia law review is exploring whether the application of sharia is incompatible with the law in England and Wales.

It will also examine the ways in which the practice may be being misused, or exploited, in a way that may discriminate against certain groups, undermine shared values or cause social harms.

The review’s chair, Professor Mona Siddiqui (pictured), today issued a formal call for evidence urging those who have experienced sharia law to share their views.

The panel is particularly keen to speak to those who:

  • have worked as part of a sharia council in the past five years; and
  • have used a sharia council in any capacity in the past five years.

Siddiqui said: 'It is vital that the panel hears a wide range of views and experiences from a variety of sources across the country.’

The panel, commissioned by the home secretary, is expected to report next year.