Published in the Guardian newspaper: Friday 9th January 2015

The killing of journalists and police officers in Paris is utterly deplorable. The atmosphere in Brussels is one of deep sadness along with heartfelt sympathy for the families and friends affected. However, it is deeply regrettable that some groups and individuals, including some in the European parliament, are using the tragic events opportunistically to forward their own personal and political agendas. Fanning the flames of division in Europe at such a time is completely unacceptable. Now is the moment to promote, celebrate and unite around Europe’s great qualities of free speech and tolerance