The Birmingham Repertory Theatre has axed a play because of violent protests by members of the Sikh community.

Protesters say that the play, which was written by a Sikh woman, demeans Sikhism by showing rape and murder within a gurdwara, or temple.

Estelle Morris, arts minister and MP for Birmingham Yardley, said: "Although today is a very sad day for freedom of speech, I think the Rep has done the right thing."

Barry Hugill, spokesman for Liberty, said: "One would have thought it ought to have been possible for the safety of playgoers to be guaranteed. You cannot allow freedom of speech to be suppressed by violence."