British Muslims have expressed fears Donald Trump’s election as US President could signal a “green light for bigotry”.
The Muslim Council of Britain revealed its concerns after Mr Trump pulled off a stunning upset to defeat Hillary Clinton in the race for the White House.
Secretary General Harun Khan challenged the businessman to prove his election will not pave the way for bigotry.
Mr Trump famously called for a ban on Muslims entering the US in the build-up to the election which sparked a furious backlash from faith leaders.
Mr Khan said: “The people of the United States have clearly spoken and I congratulate Mr Trump.
“There is however, a justifiable concern about his election.
“It is hugely worrying that a man who has openly called for discrimination against Muslims and other minorities has become the leader of a superpower nation.
“We hope the bombast and rhetoric we have seen from Mr Trump in the last few months gives way to a more reconciliatory approach.
“The President-elect must demonstrate that his election is not a green light for bigotry for the rest of the world.”
Mr Trump made the call for a “total and complete shutdown” of America ‘s borders to Muslims in December last year in the wake of the San Bernardino terror attack.
Fourteen people were slaughtered at a disability centre by radicalised Tashfeen Malik and Syed Farook. The FBI said the pair were inspired by Islamic State.