Terry Sanderson, president of England’s National Secular Society, argues for the disestablishment of the Church of England and a new secular British constitution:
However fond many are of the Church of England, and however grateful for the contribution it has made to British culture, we must face the reality that Britain is no longer a mono-faith society. Britain is becoming perhaps the most religiously diverse country in the world.
As these religions become more assertive, religious conflict becomes more likely within our shores. We have something to learn from the two great democratic and secular societies of the US and France – secularism as a way forward to minimise these tensions.
…It is time for Britain to make its move into the modern, globalised world, in which diversity and variety are embraced, while the foundations of our state, our democracy and our liberty, are solidified and secured.
Acceptance of the reality of our changing society will help us thrive together, rather than be at constant loggerheads about whose faith is more important and whose religion will have most privilege. Free from the conflict that chips away at our social cohesion, we will all enjoy our personal liberties, our mutual tolerance and freedom of faith and conscience.
Read his entire commentary in The Guardian.