← Back to House of Commons Debates
CHURCH COMMISSIONERS
03 September 2026
Lead MP
Sonia Kumar
Debate Type
General Debate
Tags
Religion & Faith
Other Contributors: 5
At a Glance
Sonia Kumar 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
Asked about the steps the Church of England is taking to work with other faith groups to promote community cohesion.
Battersea
The Church has a long history of working across faiths to ensure community cohesion, with most dioceses having an interfaith adviser. The Church supports the work of the Church Urban Fund and Near Neighbours, whose central aim is to promote interfaith understanding and stronger community cohesion. The Church has also established a working group with the bishops to promote community cohesion in response to political polarisation.
Acknowledged the Church’s ability to bring communities together and inquired about how the Church can strengthen dialogue, support cohesion, and help communities resist division.
Inquired about the Church of England’s plans regarding Project Spire and whether resources could be better spent on saving historic churches.
Liz Twist
Lab
Blaydon
Asked about the discussions the Church of England has had with the Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport on the second round of applications for the places of worship renewal fund.
Battersea
Responded to inquiries about Project Spire, noting it is funded by the commissioners’ own income and not parish collections. Emphasised the importance of interfaith dialogue and the Church's commitment to reconciliation. Also mentioned discussions with the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport regarding the places of worship renewal fund and the distribution of £1.6 billion to support Church ministry and mission.
▸
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.