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Written question asked by Andrew Rosindell (Conservative) on Tuesday, 22 July 2025, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 1 September 2025. It was answered by Nia Griffith (Labour) on Thursday, 4 September 2025 on behalf of the Government Equalities Office.

Church of England: Employment

Question

To ask the Minister for Women and Equalities, what steps the Government has taken to support (a) Anglo-Catholics and (b) traditionalist Anglo-Catholics of the Church of England in the workplace.

Answer

This government is clear that no one should be disadvantaged in the workplace because of their religion or belief. The Equality Act 2010 provides protection from discrimination to anyone with a religious or philosophical belief, as well as to those who lack a religion or belief. This includes all forms of Anglo-Catholicism.

The definition of religion, or religious or philosophical belief is in line with Article 9 of the European Convention on Human Rights which stipulates that everyone has the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion. The main criterion for what constitutes a ‘religion’ for the purposes of Article 9 is that it must have a clear structure and belief system.

A range of guidance and codes of practice is available to employers and employees to help ensure that the law is followed. Employees who think that they have experienced religious discrimination may seek legal redress at an employment tribunal, if early Acas conciliation proves unsuccessful.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
69789
Session
2024-26
Subjects
Church of England Employment
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk