06/01/2010

New Govt Faith Advisers

Thirteen new faith advisers have been appointed by the UK Government.

Communities Secretary John Denham said the representatives would act as a "sounding board" when dealing with faith communities, and implementing policy.

Mr Denham said faith communities are a key voice on issues such as homelessness and tackling poverty at home and abroad.

The 13 advisers, all experts in their chosen field, will acts as an additional channel to the Faith Communities Consultative Council (FCCC).

Mr Denham said: "For millions of people the values instilled by their faith are central to shaping their behaviour.

"We should continually seek ways of supporting and enhancing the contribution faith makes to the decision-making process on the central issues of our time."

Members of the advisory panel include Anglican Bishop of Leicester Tim Stevens, Jewish Volunteer Network President Rosalind Preston, Sikh human rights campaigner Dr Jasdev Singh Rai and Exploring Islam Foundation director Wakkas Khan.

Mr Denham added: "Government needs to have an understanding of this relationship – a relationship that shapes peoples behaviour - in order to help develop public policy that is relevant to our society."

(PR/GK)

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