Public Prayer Ban Row, Labour Civil War & Migration Crisis
20 March 2026

Public Prayer Ban Row, Labour Civil War & Migration Crisis

Afternoon Empire with Ian Collins

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Should public prayer be banned in Britain? A fierce debate has erupted over religion, free expression and public space after calls to restrict public prayer sparked political backlash. Theologian Theo Hobson and writer Jonathan Sacerdoti debate whether public displays of religion strengthen community life - or risk deepening division.


The row comes as Kemi Badenoch accuses Keir Starmer of pandering for political support, while Nigel Farage faces criticism over calls to ban Muslim public prayer - raising wider questions about religious freedom, integration and British values.


We also look at the growing political turmoil inside Labour, with warnings of a potential civil war over migration policy and fears the party could suffer heavy losses at upcoming elections. Former Labour adviser Kevin Meagher and commentator Benedict Spence discuss whether Starmer is losing control, amid ongoing controversy over small boat crossings, asylum policy and the UK’s future relationship with Europe.

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