Lord Pearson thinks that Christianity is open to comment and criticism, but Islam is not: "There is already an initiative running called 'Can we talk about Islam', which is aimed at Christian congregations.
"That's trying to encourage Christians to talk more with Muslims."
Lord Pearson made controversial comments claiming Islam is not a religion of peace, but later rethought this saying he did not know enough about the religion to make those claims.
Khalid Mahmood, Labour MP for Birmingham Perry Bar, speaking in The Times, said it was inappropriate for a peer to make comments like this.
He said: "It's very difficult for people to take this guy seriously when he makes such bizarre claims.
"The prophet always made the point to be at peace with people and he didn't convert anybody by force.
"These statements are absolutely incorrect."
Mr Mahmood was speaking after Lord Pearson highlighted two parts of the Koran, challenging the view Islam was peaceful: "it clearly isn't."
Commenting on one passage he said: "This is worrying because as he [Muhammad the Prophet] went through life and went to Medina, he became more violent."
Lord Pearson says he is working with three scholars of the Koran to help with his work.
His new initiative "Shall we talk about Islam" will launch soon, he said: "We are not allowed to talk about it," and hopes this will start a public conversation.
Pearson led UKIP in 2009 and 2010.
