MATT Hancock praised Britain’s 2.6 million Muslims for following the Government’s strict social distancing rules despite Ramadan starting yesterday.
Traditionally Muslims gather with friends and family in the evening to celebrate the end of fasting for a meal called Iftar.
The holy month, which begins on April 23 and lasts for a month, also usually sees worshippers congregate at mosques in large numbers during the day to pray.
But Muslim leaders have urged the UK’s Muslim population not to meet up and said there was a religious obligation for the UK’s lockdown rules to be obeyed during the month of Ramadan.
And speaking at last night’s daily press conference in No10, Mr Hancock hailed Muslims for foregoing their usual rituals during this year’s Ramadan.
The Health Secretary said: “I am acutely aware of how difficult this has been, and especially as we enter Ramadan – a month that is so special for so many people.
“This Ramadan, many Muslims who serve their country in the NHS and in the Armed Forces, and in so many other ways, will not be sharing the joy of this month as they normally do.
“I want to say to all British Muslims, thank you for staying at home.
“I know how important the daily Iftar is, how important communal prayers are at night and how important the Eid festival is.
“Thank you for making major changes to these vital parts of your practice.
“I want to say to you all, Ramadan Mubarak (Happy Ramadan), and thank you for your service and citizenship, and thank you for your sacrifice.”
