It seems that, once again, Political Correctness has lost touch with reality. The recent Totnes Council decision to drop prayers at the start of their sessions as “part of the council's efforts to become more business-like in meetings” has created a furore across the country. In a world where intolerant religious views and practices are threatening the well being of ordinary citizens, Christian prayers preceding business meetings are a welcome reassurance that, here at least, we can be assured of the Christian principles of fair play and decency underpinning the ensuing business. Whatever your individual religious persuasion there is something reassuring about this practice which has been part of our culture and tradition for generations. Its about time Totnes Council concentrated their attentions on the business in hand and kept their hands off our heritage.
I do not agree that the Totnes Council decision will in any way harm fair play or decency. In fact, I believe that they still have prayers, it is simply that these prayers are not led by a Minister thereby allowing each member to pray according to their conscience. When speaking of intolerant views and practices, it is important to realise that fair play is not the sole preserve of the Christian citizen. Even non-believers can be champions of fair play. I suspect that this story appeared on a slow news day and does not deserve the furore it is alleged to have caused.