Rowan Williams, the former archbishop of Canterbury, has criticized Nigel Farage for using the United Kingdom’s Christian identity as a means to channel anti-Muslim sentiment. Speaking in an interview with New Humanist magazine, Williams, who served as the Church of England’s senior bishop from 2003 to 2012, expressed skepticism about the sincerity of Farage’s religious convictions and his broader use of Christian rhetoric.

Williams argued that Farage and others appear to invoke Christianity primarily to reinforce divisions and foster opposition to Muslim communities. “It helps to have ‘we’re a Christian society’ to fling back,” Williams said, suggesting that the phrase serves as a rhetorical tool to legitimize anti-Muslim attitudes.

Farage, leader of Reform UK, has previously made public statements emphasizing Christian values as central to British identity. Notably, during Easter this year, he posted on social media that the country’s Christian foundations were a source of pride. His comments have drawn controversy before; in 2024, Farage was criticized after implying that a growing segment of young people in Britain, specifically Muslims, reject British values. Additionally, he voiced opposition to an Iftar event held in Trafalgar Square, an annual celebration marking the breaking of the Ramadan fast.

Reform UK has sought to add theological expertise to its ranks by appointing James Orr, a theologian, as a senior adviser to Farage. However, Williams expressed doubt about the depth of Farage’s theological engagement, stating that while Farage considered it worthwhile to bring a theologian on board, he does not believe the politician is deeply concerned with spiritual or doctrinal matters.

Williams also commented on Tommy Robinson, a controversial activist who identifies as a Christian. While Williams said he would be pleased if Robinson were genuinely striving to live as a Christian disciple, he suggested there are “awkward questions” about how Robinson’s public statements, which have been criticized for inciting hostility and violence, align with Christian teachings. Williams questioned how such rhetoric could be reconciled with the principles of Christian discipleship in light of Robinson’s activism.

The former archbishop’s remarks highlight ongoing debates about the intersection of religion and politics in the UK, particularly concerning how faith is employed in discussions about national identity and minority communities.