English Churches and Cathedrals Sustainability Review

Debate between Lord Ashton of Hyde and Lord Shutt of Greetland

Wednesday 15th November 2017 Lords Chamber

[Lord Ashton of Hyde]

Of course I agree with the right reverend Prelate that one way that churches can remain relevant is to involve themselves with things that go on in their community. That is exactly what the review is going to look at, among other things, including the uses of listed buildings for purposes beyond worship and what barriers prevent that happening.

[Lord Shutt of Greetland (LD)]

My Lords, will the Minister make it clear that there must be parity of esteem, when any state resources are being used, between churches of the established Church and nonconformist churches, chapels, meeting houses or Roman Catholic churches, which are not covered by many of the schemes that cover the established Church?

[Lord Ashton of Hyde]

That is precisely why the Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme covers all faiths.