A debate in the House of Commons has been called for on the persecution of a muslim group following the killing of Glasgow shopkeeper Asad Shah.

Mr Shah was killed outside his shop in Minard Road, Shawlands earlier last month.

Tanveer Ahmed, 32, form Bradford has admitted killing Mr Shah in a statement but has not pleaded guilty to the murder.

He claimed Mr Shah had "disrespected" Islam by claiming to be a prophet.

Muslim leaders in the city have called for tolerance and unity following the killing amid fears of sectarian tensions among muslims.

Read more: Asad Shah family fear for safety after killing linked to sectarian tensions in Muslim community

Stewart McDonald, SNP MP for Glasgow South, has asked for MPs to debate the treatment of the Ahmadiyya community around the world.

The Herald:

Mr McDonald paid tribute to Mr Shah and Chris Grayling the Leader of the House said he was also “deeply shocked” by the killing.

Read more: Heartbroken family of Asad Shah speak of 'devastation' at shopkeeper's death

Mr McDonald said: “When the House rose for summer recess, that evening a local shopkeeper Asad Shah in my constituency was tragically killed.

“He was a much loved gentle and friendly man. He will be sorely missed by many in the south side of Glasgow

“He was also a member of the Ahmadiyya muslim community and the police have identified there is religious aggravation behind the killing.

The Herald:

Mr McDonald asked: “Can we have a debate on the persecution that the Ahmadiyya community face in this country and around the world and also discuss what the government is doing to tackle this cancerous form of sectarianism?”

Read more: Asad Shah memorial on hold until campaigners meet family of slain shopkeeper

Chris Grayling, Leader of the House said he was well aware of the religious community Mr Shah came from and he praised its work.

He said: “Can I say how deeply shocked we all were by this terrible murder and even more shocked by the motivation for that murder.

“I know the Ahmadiyya Muslim community well. I’ve met His Holiness and leading members of that community.

“I know the good work they do in our country, I know the positive role they try to play in our community. I know the way in which they want to bridge gaps between different communities in this country.

“The fact before his death he had published a message of goodwill to Christians is a sign of what a Valuable part of our community the Ahmadiyyas are.

“They are persecuted around the world we should always be willing to be their defenders.”