MPs show unity in debate on the contribution of Christianity in public life
Christian MPs from four different political parties came together to debate the contribution of Christianity in public life. In response to recent media stories about Christians being challenged about expressing their faith in the workplace, the MPs highlighted the invaluable and growing social contributions that Christian individuals and organisations are making in the UK, and sought government assurances that this would continue to be valued practically.
Andrew Selous MP for South West Bedfordshire and Chairman of the Christians in Parliament group secured the debate on Wednesday 11th March. Christian MPs from the Labour, Conservative, Liberal-Democrat and Scottish National Party joined him in expressing their support and acknowledgement of the good work Christians do in this country and the vitally important role that the faith has in supporting public and voluntary services.
Andy Reed MP for Loughborough joined in the debate as Vice Chairman of Christian in Parliament and expressed his desire for Christians to live out their faith in the work that they have been called to. He said “It was encouraging to see the breadth of support for the contribution of the Christians in public life. It is clear that the Bible has an important and developing role in politics.”
The Minister from the Department for Communities and Local Government, Ian Wright MP responded to the debate for the government by acknowledging the good works that Christians provide, and offered further government support for Christian groups. In recognising the Christian heritage of the UK, he accepted the need for Christians to continue to play an important role in public affairs – and to be able to express their faith as the central component of their identity.
The Ministers’ positive response was very welcome as he acknowledged the huge role Christians play in our day to day lives. In the debate Sharon Hodgson MP for Gateshead East & Washington West presented a strong defence of the role of Christian faith in British culture, and Gary Streeter MP for South West Devon identified the challenges and opportunities facing Christians in public life. Lembit Opik MP for Montgomeryshire said: “Although there must be tolerance of all different faiths in this country, nevertheless we live in what must reasonably be called a faith-based society with Christianity at it core.”