OXFORD, UK, December 16, 2011: In a speech in Oxford on the 400th anniversary of the King James Bible, the prime minister called for a revival of traditional Christian values to counter Britain’s “moral collapse”.
The PM said it was wrong to suggest that standing up for Christianity was “somehow doing down other faiths”.
Describing himself as a “committed” but only “vaguely practicing” Christian, the PM admitted he was “full of doubts” about big theological issues. But he staunchly defended the role of religion in politics and said the Bible in particular was crucial to British values.
“We are a Christian country and we should not be afraid to say so,” he told the audience at Christ Church.
“Let me be clear: I am not in any way saying that to have another faith – or no faith – is somehow wrong. I know and fully respect that many people in this country do not have a religion. And I am also incredibly proud that Britain is home to many different faith communities, who do so much to make our country stronger.
“But what I am saying is that the Bible has helped to give Britain a set of values and morals which make Britain what it is today.”
“Many people tell me it is much easier to be Jewish or Muslim here in Britain than it is in a secular country like France,” he said. “Why? Because the tolerance that Christianity demands of our society provides greater space for other religious faiths too. And because many of the values of a Christian country are shared by people of all faiths and indeed by people of no faith at all.”