Oral Answers to Questions

Michael Fabricant Excerpts

Thursday 25th June 2020 Commons Chamber

[John Lamont (Berwickshire, Roxburgh and Selkirk) (Con)]

What the timeframe is for the resumption of church services as the covid-19 lockdown restrictions are eased.

[Michael Fabricant (Lichfield) (Con)]

When the Church Commissioners plan to reopen cathedrals and churches for worship; and if he will make a statement.

--- Later in debate ---

[Mr Speaker]

We are now heading to the shadows of the spires of Lichfield cathedral with one Michael Fabricant.

[Michael Fabricant [V]]

Thank you, Mr Speaker: from where I am sitting now Lichfield cathedral is just about 100 yards behind me.

Lichfield has a great choral tradition; we have a choral school and the services are very good. It is open for two hours a day at the moment for private prayer, but when does my hon. Friend anticipate that we will be able to go to evensong and enjoy the wonderful choir that sings there?

[Andrew Selous]

My hon. Friend is absolutely right. Cathedrals such as Lichfield are at the centre of the amazing choral tradition that we have in this country. Sadly, I have to tell him that singing and chanting are not allowed even at a distance, due to the additional risk of infection, and woodwind and brass instruments should not be used, but that still leaves many other instruments. His constituents can return for public worship from 4 July and I know that Lichfield Cathedral will be making them very welcome when they return.