Havering Councillors to Debate Dropping Prayers and National Anthem At The Start Of Meetings

Councillors are set to discuss whether prayers and the playing of the National Anthem at the start of meetings are taking up too much time.

Havering Council is set to debate whether saying prayers and singing the national anthem before each full council meeting should continue, after concerns were raised about how much time these activities take up.

Currently, each meeting begins with a short prayer and the playing of the national anthem. However, some councillors now believe this may not be the best use of time and are calling for a rethink.

“We’re not saying faith or tradition isn’t important, but we must look at how we’re using time during our sessions,” said one councillor.

As part of the ongoing discussions, councillors and council staff will explore alternatives, including the possibility of using an already-existing prayer room for those who wish to reflect or pray privately before meetings.

Having a designated quiet space would still allow people to practise their Faith if they choose, without holding up the official proceedings it is believed.

The final decision is yet to be made, but the topic is expected to prompt lively discussion among councillors who hold differing views on the importance of keeping traditional practices versus streamlining council business.

This move comes as part of a wider conversation across the UK about balancing tradition, inclusivity, and time efficiency in public institutions.

Councillors will now review the Council’s Constitution. It is a cross-party group who are looking at everything from delegated powers to Full Council meetings.

At a Governance meeting in February, the length of Full Council meetings was up for debate. Full debates are often cut short due to the time running out and decisions being taken by vote only, or withdrawn.

Councillor Gillian Ford suggested that the Constitution Working Party look at all options which included setting aside a room for Faith groups to pray before a meeting to increase meeting time, and to consider stopping singing the national anthem as this is not the normal practice of most councils. It would however be a cross-party discussion at the Constitution Working Group.

To date no discussions have taken place.

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