Overview

This bill allows local authorities in England and Wales to include time for prayers or other religious or belief-related observances at their meetings and to support or participate in related events.

Description

The Local Government (Religious etc. Observances) Bill amends the Local Government Act 1972 to grant powers to local authorities in England to:

• Include religious or belief-related observances in meetings: This includes prayers, or observances connected to religious or philosophical beliefs, at meetings of local authorities, their committees, and joint committees.
• Support or facilitate religious or belief-related events: This allows local authorities to support, facilitate, or be represented at events that are religious, have a religious element, or are connected to a religious or philosophical belief.

The bill extends these powers to a wide range of other local authorities and bodies in England and Wales, including the London Assembly, the Greater London Authority, National Park authorities, and others, though the specific application varies.

Government Spending

The bill does not directly allocate any specific government spending. The costs associated with implementing the bill (e.g., administrative changes within local authorities) are not detailed within the provided text.

Groups Affected

• Local authorities in England and Wales: These will be directly affected, gaining new powers to incorporate religious or belief-related observances and events into their activities.
• Religious and belief groups: These groups may benefit from increased support and inclusion within local authority events and activities.
• Members of the public: Members of the public may be impacted by the changes in local authority meeting procedures and their potential participation in supported events.
• Secular groups: This bill may raise concerns for secular groups who may feel their beliefs are not considered.

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