London mayor “Red Ken” Livingstone sees nothing wrong with the fact that the son of extremist cleric Abu Hamza has access to restricted areas in the London Underground rail system—even though he was convicted in Yemen of terrorism: Livingstone backs terrorist’s Tube job. (Hat tip: LGF readers.)

Ken Livingstone today defended the right of Abu Hamza’s son to work for a Tube contractor - despite his conviction for terrorism in Yemen.

Mohammed Kamel Mostafa, 25, from Wembley, was given a security pass and had access to restricted areas - including tunnels under Parliament - during his time as a labourer at nights and weekends on the Underground.

But the Mayor said he doubted the veracity of any conviction from Yemen and said Mostafa had passed Tube security checks.

He said it was wrong to restrict his ability to work simply because he was the son of Abu Hamza. Mr Livingstone said: “Has he broken any laws here in Britain? The answer is no. We are happy to have him working for us.

“No one can be blamed for what their parents do. All we ask is that they respect the law of the land and do not hurt anyone.”

Is that too much to ask?

UPDATE at 10/31/06 1:47:36 pm:

Red Ken clarifies his position.

In this country a person cannot be sacked for what their parents do. It is the actions of Mohammed Kamel Mostafa himself which are relevant. However, Mr Mostafa has convictions in Yemen. These must be taken into account. They should have been brought to light by those doing the security checks, the failure to do so must be investigated. As he failed to declare these to the subcontractor they are correct to dismiss him.