Council U-turns on plans to restrict public evangelism

A Hampshire council has backtracked on implementing restrictions on street preaching.

Rushmoor Borough Council attempted to impose a court injunction that would have restricted Christian street preaching, religious discussions, prayer, singing and leaflet distribution after some complaints.

Following backlash and subsequent discussion with local Christian groups, the Council has instead agreed to cooperate in creating a voluntary code of conduct for street preachers.

Criminalising faith

Local preacher and evangelist Jamie Broadey said: “We welcome the news that the council has withdrawn its application, but it is highly concerning that they made this attempt to criminalise the Christian faith in the first instance”.

Chairman of the Rushmoor Faith Leaders Forum Bishop Malcolm Cummins said: “We’re relieved that our discussions with the council have proved constructive. We now look forward to working closely together to build even stronger relationships.”

The Leader of Rushmoor Borough Council, Councillor Gareth Williams, said: “I’m pleased that, following our discussions with the local Christian community and faith leaders, we have been able to address this very sensitive issue and agree a way forward that balances the rights to freedom of worship and expression with the interests of all town centre users.”

Councillor Gareth Lyon said the U-turn was a “great outcome”, adding: “The positive engagement from local churches and Christian groups which the council has listened to, will reassure people that Rushmoor is a place where freedom of speech and conscience is valued and where partnership works”.

‘Fundamental right’

The case against the Council was supported by the Christian Legal Centre, and its Chief Executive Andrea Williams called the Council’s actions a “serious error of judgement”.

She said: “Freedom of speech — and especially religious expression — is not a privilege handed out at the discretion of local authorities. It is a fundamental right, protected by law, and hard-won through centuries of struggle.”