Religion and belief
Parliament has been a dominant force in shaping the religious life of the nation. The Church of England was created by parliamentary statute, and was protected from its enemies by further laws.
The Church is an integral part of the state and this position has been strongly upheld by Parliament.
Over time Parliament has responded to changing social realities and relaxed the laws on religious liberty.
The Parliamentary Archives worked with Kent History and Library Centre to explore the life and career of Charles Stanhope, 3rd Earl Stanhope. Find out more here.
Explore the Parliamentary collections for documents about the history of the Book of Common Prayer
Follow the course of important religious laws from medieval times to the present
Here are just some of the books about religion in Britain
Read about Parliament's recent revisions to the blasphemy laws
Find out how Parliament's role in religion has changed over the centuries