WESTMINSTER METHODIST CENTRAL HALL

Early day motion 218, tabled 20 December 1999 by David Wilshire (Conservative). Signed by 23 members.

That this House notes the continuing concern amongst parliamentarians at the planned reduction in the use of the Methodist Church of the Westminster Methodist Central Hall for church purposes in order to facilitate further commercial use of the site; and, before the final church departmental offices are transferred to Marylebone Road, urges the President and members of the Methodist Conference to reconsider their decision in the light of (a) the significant ecumenical role Central Hall plays alongside Westminster Abbey and Westminster Cathedral, (b) the important focus it provides for world Methodism with its easy access for overseas visitors, (c) the interface it has with Parliament, providing honourable Members with a valuable insight into a range of shared commitments, including commitments to social responsibility, education and young people and (d) its ongoing community involvement roles which includes providing a base for rallies, conferences and protest meetings, all of which are strengthened by being linked to a Methodist world centre of prayer and fellowship.

Signatures by party: Labour 13, Liberal Democrat 5, Labour/Co-operative 3, Conservative 1, UUP 1.