While thousands attended 'let them stay' rallies across Australia, Mr Kadri said after meetings with the Muslim community in Brisbane, Slacks Creek and Logan Mosques would also be opened to those seeking refuge. "This is an issue which transcends race, religion and ethnicity," he said. "We commend the leadership shown by the leaders of the Christian community and as people of faith, we stand with them. "We will offer the same thing in two of mosques and, if asylum seekers enter Dr Catt's church, I will go and stand in solidarity with our Christian brothers and sisters, I will stand right next to Peter Catt, shoulder to shoulder and if I am arrested, so be it. And I am not the only one. "It is the right thing to do. As people of faith, we all believe God has created us, and we should live as God intends, showing compassion.

"I think Australians, the majority of Australians are compassionate people, but I can't say the same of the majority of politicians. It is about time we had politicians reflecting the views of the electorates they represent. "Having some premiers come out and say they will take refugees is great, but it is a shame that we have a Prime Minister and a Leader of the Opposition who are adamant on this issue. "We hope they will make a decision which is compassionate and let them stay." Islamic communities from Townsville to Toowoomba have pledged their support and, Mr Kadri said, extended their thanks for Dr Catt and his supporters "for their courage and compassion". This is an issue which transcends race, religion and ethnicity. Ali Kadri

"We have so much respect for what they are doing, for the stance they have taken," he said. "There are 30,000 asylum seekers in Australia. I know a lot personally, and they are great people, who are not burdens, but have contributed a lot to this nation. Another 267 or so more would not be a burden and we should support them. "I think the way we are going, a future Prime Minister will have to make an apology to another generation for stealing their childhood because of this policy. But we know what is happening now. Loading "The time to make the right decision, to show compassion, is now."