A MUSLIM doctor banned from the UK ahead of a peace conference in Wembley is to contest the decision in the courts.

Dr Zakir Naik was yesterday banned from entering the country by Home Secretary Theresa May for she described as “unacceptable behaviour”.

The President of the Islamic Research Foundation, who is a well-known public speaker, had been due to address the Al-Khair Peace Conference on June 26 at Wembley Arena.

He may now seek judicial review in the High Court to try to overturn Mrs May's decision - the first time she has used her power to ban an individual from the UK since taking over at the Home Office.

The Harrow Times understands the whole conference may be called off as a result of Dr Naik's absence or he may be forced to speak to the conference via video link.

In a statement, Dr Naik said: “I am disappointed to learn the British Government has decided to exclude me from coming to the United Kingdom. Despite this, I intend to continue my work of interfaith dialogue.

“I encourage all Muslims to serve their country with dignity and honour and my message to vulnerable young British Muslims is  that terrorism and violent extremism, is totally unacceptable and has no place in Islamic life.”

The conference, and particularly Dr Naik's appearance, had sparked threats of a demonstration by the English Defence League (EDL).

Following yesterday's news, a man claiming to represent the EDL said the demonstration would carry on regardless because the people at the conference “condoned the behaviour” of Dr Naik.

However, EDL has posted a message on Facebook announcing the Wembley protest has been scrapped and another is planned to take place in Barking instead.

The group has claimed “victory” after Mrs May's decision, and says it is intending to show solidarity and support for British troops returning from the front line with its demonstration in Barking.

Unite Against Fascism (UAF) was planning a counter-demonstration opposing EDL members outside Wembley Arena next weekend.

Organisers are meeting in Wembley on Tuesday to discuss whether they will still hold the demonstration.