Transport for London (TfL) is under fire for approving an Underground advertisement featuring Mufti Menk, a Muslim cleric who has previously referred to gay people as “worse than animals” and denounced homosexuality as “filthy.”
London Assembly Member Susan Hall sharply criticised the decision, stating, “Mufti Menk, who appears in these adverts, is notorious for his hateful comments about the LGBTQ+ community.”
A spokesperson for the Mayor said, “The Mayor strongly condemns any language that divides our diverse communities. He is clear that there is no place for hate in London. However, the Mayor has no involvement in approving the ads that run on the TfL network. TfL’s policy complies with legal requirements.”
TfL defended its position by highlighting its close collaboration with the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) and the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), ensuring that all ads meet strict standards. Officials noted that since 2017, all cryptocurrency and financial ads must be registered with the FCA and comply with regulations on money laundering and terrorist financing. Additionally, all advertising across TfL’s network must adhere to the Committee of Advertising Practice (CAP) code and TfL’s internal policies.
The controversy has reignited debate over TfL’s role in policing content and its responsibility to protect the values of inclusion and diversity.