← Back to House of Commons Debates
Church Commissioners
10 September 2020
Lead MP
Danny Kruger
Debate Type
General Debate
Tags
No tags
Other Contributors: 6
At a Glance
Danny Kruger raised concerns about church commissioners in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.
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
The debate centres on the role and contributions of the Church of England in supporting communities during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Danny Kruger highlights the efforts of church schools and social action projects, emphasising their adaptability and expansion to meet community needs.
Andrew Selous provides examples such as £1.27 million spent on the Renewing Hope project in Salisbury for rural communities' support, and mentions that churches have led in getting children back to school while adapting their social action projects.
Danny Kruger
Reform
East Wiltshire
Danny Kruger appreciates Andrew Selous's response and urges for overcoming prejudices against faith groups in government services, suggesting that the Government should combat religious illiteracy to ensure collaboration between faith groups and public institutions.
Luke Evans
Con
Hinckley and Bosworth
Evans highlights the Church of England's efforts in providing debt advice and financial support through initiatives like food banks, citing St John’s church in Hinckley as an example. He seeks ways to better integrate these services with local government.
Selous confirms the Church of England's involvement in debt advice and praises the work of churches like St John’s, noting their £800,000 funding for further mission development. He emphasises the importance of collaboration between local authorities and churches.
Double discusses how churches have innovated in conducting services during lockdowns through online and open-air methods. He mentions specific examples from Cornwall, like Wave House church in Newquay and Anchor church in Fowey, advocating for continued innovation post-pandemic.
Selous agrees with Steve Double’s point on the importance of continuing innovative methods in worship. He cites examples such as large outdoor services by the diocese of London and drive-in services by the diocese of Norwich, showing commitment to diverse engagement.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy
About House of Commons Debates
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.