Helen Jones MP, Labour’s Shadow Home Office Minister, commenting on a rise in hate crimes against Muslims, said:

“These figures show the need for greater vigilance and determination in stopping hate crimes.

"No one should fear violence, crime or hostility because of their race, religion or sexuality.

"Across the country people are united in their condemnation of those who pursue hatred and division.

"We saw great respect and unity shown in tribute to Lee Rigby’s life and in respect for his family. People of all religions and none, of all communities came together to express their outrage against such barbaric acts.

"And communities stood together to condemn the murder of Mohammed Saleem, the attempted bombing of mosques at prayer time and to condemn extremist marches.

“Extremists of all kinds will still try to divide us. Those who pursue extremism and hatred need to learn that when they seek to divide they unite - when they try to further their aims through violence they don’t succeed.

"The police, working with local communities, need to do everything possible to catch those responsible for hate crime.”