Humanists UK publishes parties’ policies on humanist issues

2 December, 2019

Humanists UK is urging its supporters to ask their election candidates where they stand on humanist issues including assisted dying, humanist marriage, inclusive education, religious discrimination in schools, and other issues ahead of the general election on 12 December.

It has published tables comparing the major parties’ policies in Great Britain and Northern Ireland on some of the most important issues to humanists. It is also asking people to write to their candidates in Great Britain and Northern Ireland to ensure the voices of humanists are heard this election.

Humanists UK has identified a number of top humanist priorities. These include legal recognition of humanist marriages; reforming assisted dying laws; replacing collective worship with inclusive assemblies; inclusion of humanism in the RE curriculum; eliminating religious selection from state school admissions; removing unelected bishops from the House of Lords; and supporting an ambassador to promote global freedom of thought.

Legal recognition of humanist marriage is a key election issue for many couples wanting a humanist marriage. Religious people across the UK have a choice between being married by a civil registrar or being married by a representative of their religion who shares their approach to life. But in England and Wales, humanist marriages are not legally recognised, denying humanists their right to a legally recognised marriage in line with their beliefs.

Northern Ireland Humanists has also prepared a list of key issues for voters in Northern Ireland. It asks candidates to support the repeal of Northern Ireland’s blasphemy laws, support access to safe and legal abortions, and replace faith-based RE with more inclusive education.

Humanists UK is independent of all political parties and does not support, fund, or advocate any particular political party.

Notes:

For more information, contact Humanists UK press manager Casey-Ann Seaniger at casey@humanists.uk or 07534 248 596.

Read our policy table for parties standing in Great Britain and in Northern Ireland.

Send an email to your candidates in Great Britain and candidates in Northern Ireland.

Northern Ireland Humanists is a part of Humanists UK, working with the Humanist Association of Ireland. Humanists UK is the national charity working on behalf of non-religious people. Powered by over 85,000 members and supporters, we advance free thinking and promote humanism to create a tolerant society where rational thinking and kindness prevail. We provide ceremonies, pastoral care, education, and support services benefitting over a million people every year and our campaigns advance humanist thinking on ethical issues, human rights, and equal treatment for all.