Blair sidesteps the biggest issue of all: does he believe God created the world in six days?
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Your support makes all the difference.Tony Blair prompted speculation on his beliefs about the origin of the universe yesterday when he refused to criticise a city technology college for teaching fundamental Creationist theory alongside Darwin's theory of evolution.
When asked in the Commons about the controversial approach of Emmanuel College in Gateshead, Mr Blair – known for his strong Christian beliefs – avoided giving a straight answer and instead defended the need for "diversity" in education. His refusal to criticise the college is bound to raise the question of Mr Blair's position on the Creation issue as well as lead to claims that the Government is opening the door for the first time to US-style fundamentalist Christianity in British schools.
Pressed later whether the Prime Minister believed in Creationism as opposed to evolution, Mr Blair's spokesman said he did not know his views.
The issue was raised during Prime Minister's Question Time by Jenny Tonge, Liberal Democrat MP for Richmond, who asked if he was happy for Creationism to be taught in state schools.
Emmanuel College triggered outrage from some educationists when it emerged it was teaching pupils that God had created the world in six days some 4,000 years ago.
Mr Blair said reports about the school's approach had been "somewhat exaggerated" and pointed to its "very good" academic results: "I also think it would be very unfortunate if concerns over that were seen to remove the very, very strong incentive to make sure we get as diverse a school system as we properly can."
He added: "In the end, it is a more diverse school system that will deliver better results for our children and if you look at the actual results of the school I think you will find they are very good."
Under the national curriculum, schools must teach evolution but are not banned from teaching Creationism as well.
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