‘Leave Our Traditions Alone!’ Havering Residents Outraged Over Plans to Scrap Prayers and National Anthem from Council Meetings.

Residents speak out strongly against proposal to remove prayers and the national anthem from full council meetings.

The people of Havering have made their voices loud and clear – don’t touch our traditions! Yesterday, The Havering Daily asked its readers for their views on the possible removal of the long-standing practice of saying prayers and playing God Save The King at the start of full council meetings. The response was emphatic.

“It’s part of who we are – why are we even debating this?” said one frustrated resident. The overwhelming reaction was one of disbelief and disappointment that such a matter was even being discussed by elected councillors, particularly at a time when residents face mounting pressures such as rising crime, struggling high streets, and overstretched public services.

For many, these opening rituals are not just formalities but meaningful symbols of unity and tradition. They believe such ceremonies serve as a solemn reminder of duty, service, and respect – values they say should be central to all council proceedings.

“There’s nothing wrong with saying a prayer or playing the national anthem. If anything, it sets the tone for the meeting and reminds everyone who they’re serving,” shared another reader.

Instead of scrapping the tradition, several residents suggested simply starting the meetings a few minutes earlier to accommodate the time. Many were baffled as to why this was even on the agenda at all.

“Havering has so many issues right now. Roads need repairing, services are being cut, and this is what councillors are spending time on? It’s ridiculous,” said one exasperated comment.

Others expressed concerns that removing these practices would further erode Havering’s identity and the values many residents hold dear.

As one long-time local put it: “First they want to cut services, now they want to cut tradition. What’s next?”

The message from the people of Havering is clear: don’t tinker with time-honoured traditions in the name of modernisation – especially when there are far more pressing matters to deal with.

Stay up to date with all of our latest updates and content by following us on our social media accounts!

We have created community pages where we will share our up-to-date stories happening in the area. Add the area closest to where you live.