Eideard

A Lord Mayor has banned the traditional Christian prayers at the start of council meetings, calling the practice “outdated, unnecessary and intrusive“.

Colin Hall, who has just taken over the mayorship in Leicester, said the “majority” of councillors and city council staff were not practising Christians therefore there was little point in having the prayers…

“I am delighted to confirm that I will be exercising my discretion as Lord Mayor to abolish the outdated, unnecessary and intrusive practice.

“I personally consider that religion, in whatever shape or form, has no role to play at all in the conduct of council business. This particularly applies in Leicester where the majority of council members, myself included, do not regularly attend any particular faith service.”

Mr Hall said he was sure his position would be “positively received” by both council colleagues and the public, but last night he faced criticism from the Leicester Christian Fellowship…

There’s a fracking surprise. Few can whine as frequently or as loud as Christians – from a position of establishment and government support.

Mr Hall declined to comment but the Deputy Lord Mayor, Robert Wann, said he was supportive, adding: “We have many faiths within Leicester and we respect all faiths accordingly.

“Equally we respect people with no faith and on this occasion the Lord Mayor has decided not to have prayers and we will abide by that…”

Can you imagine even suggesting this in Congress? Or East Jeebus, Texas? You’d be lynched.

Rock on, Colin!