An Essex MP has spoken out against possible changes to the law on faith schools.
Speaking in a Commons' debate on denominational school, Braintree and Witham MP Alan Hurst criticised proposals for faith schools to have to take in a percentage of pupils who are not from that religion.
Some education experts have said faith schools, and others in areas dominated by one ethnic group, should give at least 25 per cent of their places to children from other backgrounds to reduce future conflict between different religions and races.
But Labour MP Mr Hurst told Parliament: "The idea that there needs to be a quota for a Church or faith school is not only unwise but goes completely against the principle on which such schools are based.
"By their nature, they are comprehensive schools, within the terms of their religion. Taking away the baptismal certificate and replacing it with another test for entry would favour the children of the better-off and the better educated."
He called for there to be more faith schools because "that diversity will strengthen education and our communities."
Published Friday July 23, 2004
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