Petition · past parliament
To keep daily prayers in House of Commons, as UK was built on Christian values.
Closed
28,039 signatures
What the petition asks
An MP is calling for the practice of saying prayers at the beginning of parliamentary business in the Commons to be abolished.
The main prayer asks for God's guidance that MPs "never lead the nation wrongly through love of power, desire to please, or unworthy ideals".
Government response · 13 February 2019
The provision of Parliamentary Prayers is a matter for the House of Commons.
The provision of Parliamentary Prayers is a matter for the House. However, many Members of all faiths appreciate the opportunity for quiet reflection before making important decisions during debates and the course of the parliamentary day.
Over recent years Parliament has made many inclusive reforms. One of these is the creation of a multi-faith prayer room in January 2018. The room is non-denominational and accessible to people of all faiths and of no faith. It provides a space for individual contemplation and/or prayer.
Leader of the House of Commons
Over recent years Parliament has made many inclusive reforms. One of these is the creation of a multi-faith prayer room in January 2018. The room is non-denominational and accessible to people of all faiths and of no faith. It provides a space for individual contemplation and/or prayer.
Leader of the House of Commons
Timeline
| 28 Jan 2019 | Petition opened for signatures |
| 31 Jan 2019 | Passed 10,000 signatures, requiring a government response |
| 13 Feb 2019 | Government responded |
| 28 Jul 2019 | Closed to new signatures |
Key facts
Signatures
28,039
Status
Closed
Opened
28 Jan 2019
Closed
28 Jul 2019
Response
13 Feb 2019
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Source: the official petition page. Last checked 15 Jul 2026.