Calls to scrap Christian prayers at the start of every house of the commons are being opposed – by a new Muslim Member of Parliament.
Independent MP Shockat Adam jumped to defend daily worship after nine MPs – including three new Labor members said that 'religious worship should not play a role in the formal affairs of the Commons'.
In a tradition that goes back to 1558, every daily session starts with a few minutes of private -Christian prayer and contemplation.
Last month, the post on Sunday revealed how part of the new generation of Labor MPs had told the Commons modernization committee that the practice was outdated.
And last week nine MPs – led by newly chosen labor politician Neil Duncan -Jordan – publicly called to stop the prayers.
In an assignment for the early day of Commons, they say that “parliamentary meetings must be held in a way that is equally welcome for all those present, regardless of their personal beliefs.”
MPs – including three work and three liberal Democrats – say that parliamentary prayers are not compatible with a society that respects the principles of freedom of and of religion. “
And they ask the modernization committee to consider 'alternative regulations'.
Independent MP Shockat Adam (photo standing) has defended the usual daily prayers at the start of the Commons Zading
But last night Leicester South MP Mr Adam – who was chosen alone in July – did not agree.
He told the post on Sunday: 'Prayers in the Lower House are part of our Christian heritage and the traditions of parliament.
'They are not mandatory, so MPs have a choice whether they should participate or not.
“So I see no reason for them not to continue.”
Starting the day with private prayers in the commons is a tradition that goes back to 1558, but nine members of parliament have called to keep the practice
He added: “MPs from other religions do not need collective prayers in the Chamber, but must remain free to pray in their own way on the parliamentary estate.”
Last month, Veteran conservative parliamentary member Sir John Hayes fell to the 'arrogance' of 'New Kids in Town' who wanted to prayed, and accused them of a 'lack of respect' for the Christian traditions of parliament.
Sir John, first chosen in 1997, said: “Whether you believe in the Divine or not, it is important to acknowledge that our country is rooted in the Christian traditions.
“Prayers are a memory of that.”
