Skip to main content

Written question asked by Lord Monson (Crossbench), in the House of Lords. It was answered by Baroness Scotland of Asthal (Labour) on Thursday, 19 January 2006.


Public Order Act 1986: New Testament

Question
Whether they believe that it is an offence under the Public Order Act 1986 to display quotations from the New Testament on the grounds that the display of such material is (a) threatening; (b) abusive; or (c) insulting.
Answer

It is for the courts to decide, in any case which is brought before them by the proper authorities, whether an offence has been committed. Cases have to be dealt with in context but we consider it unlikely that such conduct will be an offence.


Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
3055; 677 c131WA
Session
2005-06
Subjects
Public order offences Quotations New Testament
Legislation
Public Order Act 1986
Link
View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk