Bishop of Norwich asks about grant funding for Cathedrals

The Bishop of Norwich asked a question on grant applications from Cathedrals on 6th March 2025, during a discussion on introducing  admission charges to museums and galleries for non-UK residents:

The Lord Bishop of Norwich: My Lords, this nation’s cathedrals, while not museums, are among the gems of our heritage—treasure troves of memory, architectural masterpieces, and places where prayer has been valid for centuries. The majority do not charge anyone for entry, because they believe in a theological principle that places of prayer should be free for all. Will the Minister confirm that, when cathedrals that do not charge an entry fee apply for grants from public money, His Majesty’s Government will not penalise them?

Baroness Twycross (Lab, DCMS): I am happy to write to the right reverend Prelate with the specifics. It is really welcome that people can go into places of worship for quiet reflection as well as to see the most magnificent structures in the country. I do not have a specific answer to his question, and I will endeavour to write to him.

Hansard