The saying of prayers as part of the formal meeting of a Council is not lawful under Local Government Act 1972 sec 111, and there is no statutory power permitting the practice to continue. However, if it were lawful, the manner in which the practice is carried out in the circumstances of Bideford does not infringe either Councillor Mr Bone's human rights nor does it unlawfully discriminate indirectly against him on the grounds of his lack of religious belief.
National Secular Society & Anor, R (on the application of) v Bideford Town Council - Council prayers unlawful, but NOT discriminatory
High Court (Admin) - 10/02/12
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National Secular Society & Anor, R (on the application of) v Bideford Town Council - Council prayers unlawful, but NOT discriminatory
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