Report calls for new Freedom of Religion Act
Nicola Laver
An in-depth report on abortion buffer zones says there are serious issues around freedom of belief, religion and speech.
The report also concludes that “a pro-abortion worldview has in effect been legally prioritised and protected from any form of criticism” and calls for the government to introduce a Freedom of Religion Act.
Christian theology lecturer appeals ruling
Nicola Laver
Theology lecturer Dr Aaron Edwards, who was dismissed from Cliff College, Derbyshire after tweeting his Christian views on sexuality, is to appeal a ruling refusing his unfair dismissal, harassment and discrimination claims.
An employment tribunal found the college had been ‘reasonable’ and ‘justified’ in its actions and that Edwards’ rights to freedom of religion had not been engaged. Andrea Williams of the Christian Legal Centre, which is supporting Edwards, said the judge ‘has simply not engaged with the substance of this case. Aaron was sacked because he challenged the church to uphold God’s teaching on human sexuality.’
Conversion therapy: ‘Wrong kind of prayer’ concerns
Nicola Laver
A full ‘trans-inclusive’ conversion therapy ban is looking imminent – and church leaders are warning the Prime Minister of the threat to mainstream Christian practices, with peers likewise voicing concerns.
In the Lords, several peers expressed disquiet. The Earl of Leicester warned that ‘scaring into silence’ professionals looking after children could lead to unintended consequences for children and young people. The government has said a ban must not cover ‘legitimate psychological support, treatment or non-directive counselling’ and ‘respect the important role of teachers, religious leaders and parents’ – but details are lacking.
Crosses, cakes and challah bread in the courtroom
Two recent court judgements have shown that, although the tide has not completely turned for hard-line LGBT advocacy groups, it may well have reached its high-water mark. Job 38:11 comes to mind: ‘This far you may come and no farther; here is where your proud waves halt?’
A little while ago, an employment tribunal ruled that a London NHS Trust had ‘directly discriminated against and harassed’ a Catholic nurse, Mary Onuoha, who was forced to resign after refusing to remove her necklace bearing a small cross.