Source: BBC News

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/politics/4114582.stm

On June 22, 2005 BBC News reported, "The government has survived a backbench revolt over its plans for a new law to ban the incitement to religious hatred. An amendment from a coalition of Tory and Lib Dem MPs to block the Racial and Religious Hatred Bill failed by 303 votes to 246, giving a majority of 57.

Critics, including comic actor Rowan Atkinson, say the measure will limit freedom of expression and stop them from telling religious jokes.

But Home Secretary Charles Clarke says the bill protects 'people not faiths.'

The bill received a second reading by 303 votes to 247 - a government majority of 56 - and will now go on to its committee stage."