Essex County Council has announced plans to include the Lord's Prayer and the National Anthem in full meetings, sparking criticism from Reform, a think tank and pressure group. The decision was made at a cabinet meeting in December 2023, but it has only recently come to light. The council claims the move is an attempt to promote 'community cohesion' and to 'acknowledge the county's rich history and heritage'. However, Reform has hit out at the decision, saying that it is 'divisive' and 'unrepresentative' of the county's diverse communities.
Council's Prayer and Anthem Decision Sparks Reform Criticism
Sarah MitchellReform criticism mounts as Essex County Council decides to include the Lord's Prayer and the National Anthem in full meetings.
- Essex County Council to include Lord's Prayer and National Anthem in full meetings
- Decision sparks criticism from Reform, a think tank and pressure group
- Council says move is an attempt to promote 'community cohesion'
Why this matters: This decision highlights the ongoing debate about the role of faith and national identity in local government, and may set a precedent for other councils to follow.
What this means for you: What this means for you: This decision may have implications for the way local government operates and the role of faith in public life, potentially affecting you if you live in Essex or have an interest in local politics.