Majority of Britons Support Removing Church of England from Schools

Public Opinion Shifts on Church of England’s Role in State Functions

A recent survey indicates a growing sentiment in Britain towards re-evaluating the Church of England’s involvement in public institutions. Conducted by the research group More in Common, the poll highlights public opinion on the Church’s influence over state-funded schools and other civic roles.

The study, which gathered responses from over 2,000 British adults, revealed that 62% of participants believe the Church of England should no longer manage state-funded schools. Meanwhile, 21% support maintaining the Church’s current role, and 17% advocate for equal status for other faiths.

The survey also addressed the role of Church of England bishops in the House of Lords. Here, 63% of respondents favored their removal, whereas 17% expressed support for the inclusion of faith leaders from other religions.

Opinions were more divided concerning the monarchy’s relationship with the Church. Nearly half (47%) opposed the monarch’s position as the Supreme Governor of the Church of England, and 45% were against the Church’s prominent role in national ceremonies.

Additionally, 14% of those surveyed suggested that other faiths should have the opportunity to appoint the monarch as their supreme governor, though the logistics of such a change remain uncertain.

Regarding faith schools, 22% of respondents opined that these schools should only be allowed to select students based on faith if privately funded. However, 39% believe that selection based on faith should never occur.

Sophie Stowers, research manager at More in Common, commented to The Telegraph, “This report shows that, in an increasingly irreligious country, most Britons see religion as a private matter.

“People broadly support the right to express religious beliefs, want individuals’ faiths to be respected, and recognise that religion can bring real personal benefits to those who follow it. But this should not be mistaken for an ‘anything goes’ attitude.”