I work in an area where there is a large Muslim population. I think that sharia law may, in some circumstances, have a role to play, providing: all the parties agree; there is no attempt to replace English law with sharia law; and representatives are given a seat at the table. If the dispute resolution process can be eased by resolution taking place within a culture/religion-specific environment, then why not?

I frequently see clients who, for cultural or religious reasons, are unable to take advantage of their rights and who end up disadvantaged as a result. If a sharia court could help, then we ought to give it a try.

The spectre often raised is that, if we open the door to this, we will see adulteresses stoned in the street and thieves disarticulated at the wrist. This is offensive to the intelligence of the average law-abiding muslim.

What is wrong with religious courts anyway? We have had them in this country for centuries.

Howard Shelley, CMHT Solicitors, Walsall