Anti-Islam lawmaker investigated for hate speech

THE HAGUE, Netherlands (AP) — Dutch prosecutors say they are investigating anti-Islam lawmaker Geert Wilders on suspicion of inciting hatred and discrimination against Moroccans in the Netherlands.

Among comments under investigation is an election speech in March this year in which he asked supporters if they wanted more or fewer Moroccans. In response, they chanted “Fewer! Fewer! Fewer!”

It is not the first time the controversial legislator has tested the limits of liberal Dutch free speech laws. In 2011, Wilders was tried and acquitted of inciting hatred against Muslims.

Prosecutors announced Thursday that they have called Wilders in for questioning, but have not charged him with any crime.

Wilders calls the decision scandalous and says prosecutors should concentrate on investigating Dutch citizens, including Moroccans, who travel to Syria to fight.

Copyright 2014 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

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