6 - England: The Established Church

Summary

Begins with an overview of policy development in relation to religion and the church–state relationship, giving specific attention to the disjunctive concepts of “state neutrality” and an “established church” and to policies for promoting civil society. It then outlines the relevant legal framework before exploring the nature of the current church–state relationship, explaining definitional matters and focusing on the core freedoms of religion, association and expression. This leads into the heart of the chapter, which considers the impact of equality legislation on the church–state relationship, as illustrated in evolving case law, by examining in turn the consequences for family and life, healthcare, education, employment, service provision and national security.