FAITH GROUPS AND THE COMMUNICATIONS BILL

Early day motion 1535, tabled 7 July 2003 by John Whittingdale (Conservative). Signed by 132 members.

That this House welcomes the amendment to the Communications Bill passed in the House of Lords, which completely removes the present disqualification of religious organisations from holding various types of broadcasting licences; believes that the current ban is arbitrary and discriminatory towards faith groups throughout the country and that the existing regime provides adequate safeguards to ensure licences are only awarded to suitable applicants; and calls on the Government to support the Bill as amended.

Signatures by party: Conservative 68, Liberal Democrat 30, Labour 22, DUP 3, Independent Ulster Unionist 3, UUP 2, Independent 1, Independent Conservative 1, Plaid Cymru 1, Scottish National Party 1.