Charitable Status for Religious Institutions Bill

A Bill to make provision for a presumption that religious institutions meet the public benefit test for charitable status.

Originating House

House of Commons

Last Updated

15 May 2014

In Plain English

AI-generated

The bill would create a default assumption that religious organisations meet the 'public benefit' test needed to be recognised as charities. If passed, this could make it easier for faith groups such as churches, mosques, temples and synagogues to obtain or keep charitable status, subject to any remaining regulatory checks. Regulators would still have powers to review or challenge specific cases where public benefit is in doubt.

Key Points

Introduces a presumption that religious institutions meet the public benefit requirement for charitable status.
Could streamline the process for faith groups to obtain or maintain charitable status.
Regulators (such as the Charity Commission and equivalents in Scotland and Northern Ireland) would continue to oversee and review cases as needed.
May raise questions about accountability and fairness between religious and non-religious charities.

Progress

The bill is at the 2nd reading stage in the House of Commons. If it passes, it would move to committee stage for detailed examination and then further readings.

Who is affected?

Religious organisations seeking or holding charitable status (e.g., churches, mosques, temples, synagogues and other faith groups)Other charities affected by public benefit requirementsCharity regulators such as the Charity Commission for England and Wales, the Scottish Charity Regulator (OSCR) and the Charity Commission for Northern IrelandDonors and supporters of religious charitiesBeneficiaries of services provided by religious charities

Generated 21 February 2026

Updates & Documents

News (1)

News - Charitable Status for Religious Institutions

1 Jan 1970

This Bill was withdrawn and will not progress any further.

The Bill had its first reading on 24 June 2013.

Documents (1)

Bill 52 2013-2014, as introduced

BillCommons

27 Nov 2013

Parliamentary Votes (0)

No recorded votes for this bill yet.

Charitable Status for Religious Institutions Bill | TrackPolitics