Bushra Irfan is the Independent candidate for Blackburn.

1) Do you think the veil worn by some Muslim women is a 'mark of separation' and hinders community cohesion?

No as not that many women wear the veil across their face.

The women who do wear the veil are the ones who would not normally enter society and thus would become secluded.

The veil allows them to be able to participate in society and still be able to keep their modesty in the manner they wish to.

It does not affect the rest of the society. In fact the veil is just the first stage for the people objecting.

After that it will be the Hijab (as in france) and who knows what else as an excuse against Muslims or a manner in which to victimise them.

2)What do you think is the best way to help small businesses in the present economic climate?

The best way to be able to help small businesses in the current climate mis to give them positive and financial support by the government in the sense of subsidising their taxes and bills such as Council Rates, and taxes they have to pay for employees.

Plus incentives to employ employees would be a positive step in giving support to small businesses.

Encouraging people to attend town and improving the town centre and parking facilities mare all contributary factors in encouraging small businesses

3) What would be your exit strategy if any, with regards to the war in Afghanistan?

Immediate withdrawal of troops

4)Would you increase the number of days a terror suspect can be held without charge or do you think current laws are sufficient?

No I would not increase or even condone the current mprocedures.

The procedures need to be changed so that they are fairer and that if there is no evidence to support the contentions and to charge people within the normal time frames as for other offences then people mshould be released.

5)Name the best thing you would do to help your constituency if you are elected as MP?

The best thing I would do for my constituency as an MP would be to increase jobs and be their voice against allegations or victimisation of communities which inevitabley leads to suspicions and segregation.

Leading the community to a more cohesive and peaceful society would be a great contribution to the constituency.