What is the percentage of Sharia law activity in the UK?

 

What is the percentage of Sharia law activity in the UK?Top of Form

There are no official statistics measuring "Sharia law activity," as Sharia forms no part of the law of England and Wales. However, it is utilized informally through an estimated 30 to 85 unofficial Sharia councils or tribunals. 

UK Parliament 

The primary context of this activity includes:

• Islamic Divorce: Over 90% of cases handled by Sharia councils are women seeking an Islamic divorce (khula or faskh). 

UK Parliament

• Legal Standing: These councils are not recognized by the UK judicial system. Their rulings cannot override civil law, and they only apply to individuals who voluntarily submit to them for religious guidance. 
• Public Opinion: Polls differ on the broader acceptance of Islamic legal practices:
• In a survey for the Women's Policy Centre, a strong majority of the UK public opposes the use of Sharia courts, with 59% believing they should be banned outright.
• Older polling indicates varied support among the UK Muslim population, with a 2016 BBC poll suggesting 23% of British Muslims supported the introduction of Sharia law in areas with high Muslim populations