Commons Sense

House of Commons · Adjournment Debate

Inter Faith Network for the UK

10 January 2024 · 2 other contributors

Opened by Holly Lynch Lab Halifax

Religion & Faith

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

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Holly Lynch raised concerns about inter faith network for the uk in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

Key points

  • MP Holly Lynch advocated for continued funding of the Inter Faith Network, a religious diversity organisation founded in 1987, which facilitates inter-faith dialogue.
  • The Inter Faith Network has faced imminent closure due to the Government's withdrawal of funding in April 2023, though funding was re-announced with conditions in July 2023.
  • The Minister acknowledged the importance of inter-faith work in fostering understanding and relationships across faiths but could not provide a specific timeline for funding confirmation.

How the debate unfolded

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

Opened the debate

Holly Lynch Lab Halifax

MP Holly Lynch sought to advocate for the continued funding of the Inter Faith Network, a religious diversity organisation founded in 1987. She highlighted the network's importance as a facilitator of inter-faith dialogue and its role in addressing ignorance, prejudice, and hatred linked to religious identity. The IFN has been facing imminent closure since Government withdrew funding from April 2023 but re-announced it in July 2023 with conditions that have not yet materialised. Lynch emphasised the critical importance of this network as tensions rise due to global events like the Israel-Hamas conflict, leading to a sevenfold increase in reported anti-Muslim hate crimes and a 534% increase in anti-Jewish hate acts since October 2023.

Other contributors (2)
  • Name

    MP thanked Holly Lynch for raising the debate and provided examples of inter-faith work in their area.

  • Another MP

    An intervention commended the Inter Faith Network's accountability and transparency, highlighting its practical impact on communities.

Government Response

Simon Hoare

The Minister acknowledged the importance of inter-faith work in fostering understanding and relationships across faiths. He highlighted the Government's support for such efforts to bring people together, emphasising the role of faith communities in society beyond their own community context. The minister stated that the Department is undertaking analyses regarding the Inter Faith Network’s funding criteria but was unable to confirm a specific timeline or announcement at this time. He assured that any uncertainty over funding would be addressed and hoped for an announcement soon.

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