Author Archives: eastlon

The most openly non-religious House of Commons ever

Its official. The UK has elected the most openly non-religious House of Commons in history. Roughly 40% of MPs chose to take the secular affirmation instead of a religious oath during their swearing-in ceremony last week. That’s up from 24% … Continue reading

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Social reform that transcends party politics

The upcoming election raises new prospects for social reform. Humanists are keen to work with whoever comes to power to achieve progress. The scope for change is illustrated by the remarkable number of draft Bills actively supported by Humanists UK … Continue reading

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The ‘cap,’ religious discrimination, and the importance of children learning together

Mainstream party leaders speak admirably about the importance of social harmony. But some have a blind spot when it comes to the crucial question of children’s education. The latest Government proposal to allow 100% religious discrimination in all state schools … Continue reading

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Michaela decision – the need for reform of law on school prayer

The ‘prayer ban’ at Michaela Community School in Brent has hit the headlines again following the recent High Court judgement. The controversy highlights the pressing need to reform our archaic laws on religious worship for state-educated children. Michaela school was … Continue reading

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Respecting freedom of speech and assembly

The recent report that the Gospel Oak to Barking Line is to be renamed the ‘Suffragette Line’ is great news.  Celebrating these heroines from East London helps put recent fatuous remarks by Home Secretary James Cleverly into perspective. Like his … Continue reading

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Thoughts on the Michaela Prayer Row

A row over prayers at a West London school has hit the headlines. But there’s a bigger picture that should be grabbing our attention. The row concerns Britain’s so-called ‘strictest headteacher’, Katharine Birbalsingh, taken to court over a ban on … Continue reading

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Our last human right

Reform is badly needed to give the terminally ill their last human right – freedom to choose how and where to die. Opinion piece Barking & Dagenham Post 11.1.24 (below). Also for publication Romford Recorder, Ilford Recorder, Docklands and East … Continue reading

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Nature’s collapse, and an inspiring story

Opinion piece published Barking & Dagenham Post, Romford Recorder, Docklands & East London Advertiser November/December 2023, transcribed below These are grim times, but reading about a star birdwatcher cheered me up! The story of David Lindo, recently appointed a patron … Continue reading

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Remembering the key message of Remembrance Day

Opinion piece Ilford Recorder 16 November 2023 I took the decision to wear a white poppy alongside my red poppy when I took part in Sunday’s Remembrance Day service at Ilford War Memorial. A red poppy shows respect for the … Continue reading

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Gaza. Religious zealotry v Reason and compassion

Opinion piece published in Barking & Dagenham Post, Docklands and East London Advertiser and Ilford Recorder November 2023. Where do you stand on the ghastly Gaza war? As a Humanist I am on the side of peace. And I will … Continue reading

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