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Future of the Church of England 2025-07-17
17 July 2025
Lead MP
Danny Kruger
Debate Type
Adjournment Debate
Tags
No tags
Other Contributors: 3
At a Glance
Danny Kruger raised concerns about future of the church of england 2025-07-17 in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Opened the debate
It is an honour to stand here in this empty Chamber to speak about the original purpose of this space, when it was a chapel in the Church of England. The link between this place and the Church of England is not merely ceremonial but foundational to our democracy. Danny Kruger highlights that the Church of England serves as a chaplain to the nation and has been a vital part of English history and governance. He discusses the current challenges faced by the Church, including deep disputes over doctrine and governance, and its unclear leadership with even the process of choosing the next Archbishop of Canterbury in dispute. The country itself mirrors these issues, facing divisions and uncertainty. Last month's votes authorising abortion laws are described as a great sin, prompting repentance from Danny Kruger on behalf of the House. He speaks about the need for societal change towards a better way of living based on Christian principles which have historically formed the institutions and culture that made this country stable and successful. The speech includes references to the influence of Christianity in shaping English democracy, the dangers of abandoning religious values, and the rise of Islam and 'woke' ideology as new threats.
Andrew Rosindell
Con
Romford
My hon. Friend is making a very moving and powerful speech. Our Head of State, who is also the head of the Church of England, represents the rights of all peoples to live in a free society and to worship freely. The cross above the crown worn by our Head of State demonstrates that the Christian faith is at the heart of our constitution, customs, heritage, and British way of life.
Andrew Rosindell
Con
Romford
My hon. Friend the Member for East Wiltshire referred to the importance of the local parish. Across England, the parish is central to everything.
Jim McMahon
Lab
Oldham West and Royton
I believe that very strongly, actually. Even Members who are not church attenders will take part in civic life at a local level that is closely linked to their local parish church.
Government Response
Government Response
I thank the hon. Member for East Wiltshire (Danny Kruger) for securing this important debate on the future of the Church of England. I am grateful for the opportunity to respond on behalf of the Government. The Minister acknowledges the historical importance of the Church in English governance and highlights its role as a chaplain to the nation. While he does not provide specific funding announcements or policy commitments, his response focuses on addressing the concerns raised by emphasising the government's support for religious freedom and the established status of the Church within the UK constitution. We have provided assurance to the hon. Member for East Wiltshire that, on the importance of the Church of England and the Christian faith more generally, Parliament and the Executive are by no means washing their hands. The Government reflect that a great example is the Lords Spiritual (Women) Act 2015 (Extension) Act 2025, which was skilfully steered through the House last year by the Parliamentary Secretary, Cabinet Office, my hon. Friend the Member for Erith and Thamesmead (Ms Oppong-Asare). The Church also has a presence in this House through the Second Church Estates Commissioner. I am pleased that the Second Church Estates Commissioner, my hon. Friend the Member for Battersea (Marsha De Cordova) does so much work in that regard, serving as a vital link between Parliament and the Church, and ensuring that the Church Commissioners remain accountable to the House. The Government believe they offer a unique and valued spiritual perspective.
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House of Commons debates take place in the main chamber of the House of Commons. These debates cover a wide range of topics including government policy, legislation, and current affairs. MPs from all parties can participate, question ministers, and hold the government accountable for its decisions.