First Muslim bank to open in UK

[T_i_B]

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/business/3547374.stm

Banking regulators say they have given permission for the first British-based Islamic bank to start operating.

The bank will forbid the paying or charging of interest, which is considered usury and banned under Islam.

The Islamic Bank of Britain has promised not to invest in companies associated with tobacco, alcohol or pornography.

Managing director Michael Hanlon told The Times the bank's services would be offered at "competitive" rates. "We are not playing the religious card," he told the newspaper, adding that he hoped the bank's policies would also appeal to non-Muslims.

[Nambe]

1. This bank will draw an interesting crowd!

MI6, CIA, BFEE, and a strong showing of dealers from the Kyber Pass.

[lostnfound]

2. Theoretically, Habitat for Humanity, too??

Isn't there something in the New Testament about not being a money-lender?