TEATHER WELCOMES GOVERNMENT REVIEW ON NON-PREACHING MINISTERS OF RELIGION

2.56.48pm UTC (GMT +0000) Sun 16th Jan 2005

Brent East MP and Liberal Democrat spokesperson for London, Sarah Teather has today welcomed the Government's decision to open up consultation with faith groups on the regulations introduced last August requiring Ministers of Religion to demonstrate fluency in English.

Speaking on Radio 4's 'Sunday Programme' earlier today, Sarah Teather gave a cautious welcome to the concession.

Sarah Teather MP said:

"Finally the Government appear to have recognised the problem, albeit belatedly -- the Hindu Council UK have been warning Ministers about this for months. Only now, when Temples are unable to recruit appropriately qualified priests have the Government accepted there might be a problem.

"However, consultation must be true consultation. All too often this Government views consultation exercises as a chance to preach the new Labour Gospel. Listening in good faith means being prepared to change your mind."