Oral question asked in the House of Commons, by Sarah Newton (Conservative). It was answered on Thursday, 30 June 2011 on behalf of the Church Commissioners.

St Paul's Church, Truro

Question: The church hall is a valuable community resource that is much appreciated by the homeless people of Truro, who receive a warm welcome and freshly cooked meals from the Truro homeless action group. Will my hon. Friend work with me to enable community groups to have the opportunity to secure the hall for the continued benefit of the community of Truro?

Answer: I entirely agree that Church of England buildings, whether they be churches or church halls, should wherever possible be open to the widest possible use by the greater community. That is part of the Church's national mission, and I think that before any church or church building is declared redundant or sold every possible effort should be made to see that it is retained for community use. I will most certainly convey my hon. Friend's comments to the diocese of Truro.

Secondary information