Labour Council Quickly Reverses Outrageous Ban on Christian Activities
In a move that has stunned the local community, Rushmoor Borough Council – run by Labour – almost imposed a sweeping ban that would forbid nearly every Christian expression in Farnborough and Aldershot. The plan would have shut down not just public prayers but also traditional Christmas cheers, caroling and even handing out mince pies at night.
What Went Wrong?
The council’s initial request came after a handful of complaints that some “extreme” evangelical preachers were distressing residents. Determined to curb what they saw as “offensive” activity, the council drafted an injunction that, once approved, would have outlawed:
- Public speaking by Christian pastors
- Even singing religious hymns in public places
- Seasonal celebrations such as Christmas carols and the serving of mince pies
Public Response
Jamie Broadley, a town councillor, told the GB News that the council’s proposal was “beyond reasonable.” He compared it to using a sledgehammer on a walnut, stressing that the council had gone far overboard.
“The council genuinely wanted to address the most extreme cases, but what they produced was a lunatic proposal that took almost two years to write,” Broadley added. He highlighted that the council had ignored feedback from local faith leaders and instead drafted the text in isolation.
Legal Expert Weighs In
S.J. Phillips, a solicitor, described the draft as “completely illegally illiterate.” Phillips explained that the injunction would have been “unprecedented in its breadth and depth,” effectively criminalising all forms of Christian evangelism. He warned that a citizen could even be penalised for sailing into town on Christmas night to sing carols or serve mince pies.
“This was a direct assault on freedom of speech – a right entrenched in our nation for decades,” Phillips affirmed. He hoped the council’s abrupt withdrawal would serve as a turning point.
Council’s Final Decision
Recognising the overreach, Rushmoor Borough Council promptly abandoned the injunction. The council issued a statement noting that discussions with local faith leaders had reinforced a joint commitment to preserve the right to worship and preach in Farnborough and Aldershot’s town centres while at the same time addressing the few instances of anti‑social behaviour.
Key Takeaway
While the council’s intention to curb extreme evangelical practices was understandable, the proposed blanket ban was illegal, disproportionate, and outright infringed upon fundamental freedoms. By pulling back, the council has avoided a significant constitutional crisis and opened the door for a balanced dialogue with faith groups.
