Britain’s new prime minister, Andy Burnham, plans to introduce legislation aimed at abolishing a centuries-old legal restriction that bars Roman Catholics and Jews from advising the monarch on appointments to the Church of England. The proposed Church Appointments (Repeal of Discriminatory Provision) Bill will be the first piece of legislation put forward by Burnham’s government and seeks to eliminate what the prime minister describes as an “antiquated and archaic” law dating back to 1829.

Burnham, the country’s first Catholic prime minister, has highlighted the discriminatory nature of the statute, which technically prohibits him from fully exercising his constitutional role in recommending archbishops, bishops, and deans to the sovereign. Although the law has had limited practical impact—since the Church of England typically submits a single nominee for the prime minister’s approval—the existing provision effectively bars Catholics and Jews from participating in this advisory process.

To navigate this constitutional obstacle, Burnham has temporarily delegated his advisory duties to Alex Norris, the Lord Chancellor. Under current legislation, any attempt by Burnham to act in this capacity could expose him to penalties, including the possibility of being banned from public office for what is classified as a high misdemeanour.

The government plans to introduce the repeal bill at the earliest opportunity, with Louise Haigh, the first secretary of state, expected to sponsor the legislation in parliament. While the Church of England reportedly supports the reform, the bill represents a symbolic shift in the relationship between religion and the state, reflecting broader efforts to remove traces of historical religious discrimination.

The only remaining religious restriction of this kind now applies to the monarch, who is prohibited from professing the Catholic faith under existing constitutional arrangements.

Burnham, raised in the Roman Catholic tradition in his Makerfield constituency, has spoken openly about his faith and its influence on his political outlook. Although he is not a regular churchgoer, he credits Catholic social teachings, particularly those of Liverpool’s Archbishop Derek Worlock, with shaping his early political development. Ahead of taking office, Burnham disclosed that he had informed civil servants of his faith and was advised on the constitutional complexities surrounding Church appointments.

In public remarks, Burnham has expressed pride in being the first Catholic prime minister to enter 10 Downing Street, describing his faith as an integral part of his identity and political ethos. His children also attended Catholic schools, and he has acknowledged his mother’s strong influence in maintaining the family’s religious heritage.

The repeal of this law marks a significant though largely symbolic step toward modernizing Britain's constitutional framework and ensuring that future prime ministers will not face religious barriers in fulfilling their official responsibilities.