France to Expel Twelve Islamic Extremist Preachers this Month

Colin Randall / Aimee Herd reporting : Aug 1, 2005
Telegraph.co.uk

France seems to be taking a hard line in the battle against terrorism by expelling a dozen Islamic "preachers of hatred and violence" between now and the end of August.

The action is part of an anti-terrorism package brought by interior minister Nicholas Sarkozy. The minister's proposals echo the desire by the French to take swift action against extremists who are fueling anti-western feeling among young Muslims in the country.

"We have to act against radical preachers capable of influencing the youngest and most weak-minded," said Sarkozy. He added that some 12 mosques are under surveillance for "provocative anti-western preaching."