Future of the Church of England 2025-07-17

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.

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.