Commons Sense

House of Commons · Adjournment Debate

Historic Churches: Covid-19

16 July 2020 · 2 other contributors

Opened by Jim Shannon DUP Strangford

Culture, Media & SportReligion & Faith

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Jim Shannon raised concerns about historic churches: covid-19 in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

Key points

  • MP for Strangford expressed concern over the closure of St Margaret's church and its impact on religious worship and tourism.
  • Rich history of churches like Greyabbey and the Dominican friary in the constituency was highlighted, emphasizing their cultural significance.
  • MP called for financial assistance from the Government's culture fund to help churches maintain operations and remain vibrant spiritual centres.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Jim Shannon DUP Strangford

The MP for Strangford expressed his concern over the closure of St Margaret’s church and its potential impact on both religious worship and tourism. He highlighted the rich history of churches in his constituency, such as Greyabbey and the Dominican friary, emphasising their cultural significance. Shannon stressed the importance of ensuring these historic sites remain functional places of worship rather than deteriorating into mere historical monuments. He acknowledged the significant loss of revenue due to the pandemic and called for financial assistance from the Government’s culture fund to help churches maintain operations and continue as vibrant spiritual centres.

Other contributors (2)
  • Tom Hunt Lab Ipswich

    The hon. Member for Ipswich discussed the impact of church closures on community services in his constituency, citing examples like St Mary-at-the-Quay and St Stephen’s church. He emphasised the need to find new uses for historic churches to ensure they remain central to local communities as they recover from the pandemic.

  • Nigel Huddleston Con Telford

    The Minister highlighted existing Government support measures such as the listed places of worship grant scheme and emergency funding for heritage organisations, including a £50 million Heritage Fund. He also mentioned ongoing dialogue with religious groups to address their challenges during the pandemic.

Government Response

Nigel Huddleston

The Minister acknowledged the concerns raised by MPs about the impact of the pandemic on historic churches and places of worship. He detailed existing support measures such as the listed places of worship grant scheme, emergency funds for heritage organisations, charity support fund, and cultural sector funding announced by the Chancellor. The Minister committed to ongoing dialogue with religious groups to address their challenges during the pandemic and reiterated the Government’s commitment to supporting historic churches.

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