Ramadan, the Muslim month of fasting and prayer, started last weekend, days after the Manchester bombing, in which Salman Abedi killed 22 people in the name of Islam. It’s interesting to reflect that he blew himself up shortly before a time when he would be expected to be engaged in fasting and works of charity.

A week before the month of fasting began, I was at an event in Westminster called Welcoming Ramadan, a dinner in aid of the Muslim charity Human Appeal. There were various dignitaries, mostly Muslim, but with guests from other religious groups. It was the only event I’ve ever attended where Krispy Kreme doughnuts were served as canapés – after a day’s fasting, Muslims often eat something sweet to perk themselves up.