Letter: The MPs' oath
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Sir: Charles Bradlaugh didn't refuse to take the oath when he was elected to Parliament in 1880, nor was the law amended in 1885 to enable him to take his seat (leader, 5 December).
As an atheist (and a republican), he objected to the religious oath and preferred non-religious affirmation; but when he was prevented from affirming he not only tried to take the oath eleven times but actually did so three times. His victories in two general elections and four by-elections didn't force a change in the law, because he was eventually allowed to take his seat after taking the oath in 1886. The law was changed to make non-religious affirmation possible when his own Bill was passed in 1888, but he died in 1891 before being able to take advantage of it.
NICHOLAS WALTER
Rationalist Press Association
London N1
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments