Press Release

Blasphemy laws are on their way out

6 March 2008

The British Humanist Association (BHA) has expressed delight after peers voted by a large majority to pass an amendment to abolish the laws of blasphemy and blasphemous libel.

Putting the amendment to the House, Baroness Andrews, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for the Department of Communities and Local Government, stated that ‘it is crystal clear that the offences of blasphemy and blasphemous libel are unworkable in today's society.'

Hanne Stinson, BHA Chief Executive, said, 'We are delighted that the amendment has been passed in the House of Lords, and this shows a clear commitment from across the political and belief spectrums to abolish the outdated and discriminatory blasphemy laws.'

Ms Stinson continued, 'We are also pleased that the Government made clear the need to protect atheists and humanists from discrimination, as well as to protect religious people. Unlike the blasphemy laws which protect only Church of England doctrine and belief, recent legislation to protect against religious hatred seeks to protect individuals of all faiths and none.'