House of Commons - Culture, Media and Sport - Minutes of Evidence

Select Committee on Culture, Media and Sport Minutes of Evidence

APPENDIX 10

Memorandum submitted by the British Humanist Association

1. THE CONTENT OF THE MILLENNIUM DOME

(a) We hope that the Spirit Level zone will inspire the thoughts and emotions of those with no specific religious faith, as well as those who are worshipping members of particular faith groups. Therefore we ask that there be a humanist among the special advisers to the Department on faith issues, able to suggest inclusive elements, and work closely and positively with the religious advisers.

(b) We are concerned that ethical issues raised by installations on medicine, science and technology are dealt with in a broad and thoughtful way. As school and college teachers will report, most young people raise complex questions in response to the newer ethical issues. Although simple answers can be found, there is scope for building on our shared human values, and reaching a broad consensus with the majority of groups concerned about ethical issues. Therefore we ask that these aspects of the Dome are also brought before advisers representing teachers of ethics at sixth form level, and those representing religious and non-religious groups concerned with ethics.

2. TRANSPORT AND TICKETING ARRANGEMENTS

Many of our members have expressed concern that, besides the large funding from National Lottery revenue, visitors to the Dome may be charged about £20 per adult. We appreciate the complex accounting and high costs of the Dome, but in the interests of participation, recommend that this be reduced if at all possible.

We note with concern the reported delays in building integrated transport access to the Dome site, with minimum disruption to local business and residents.

3. THE NATIONAL PROGRAMME

We respect the right of the Christian churches to organise particular celebration and reflection for their members, and commend them especially for their efficient and advanced organisation around the first Sunday of the year 2000. However, we recommend that there are also more inclusive national events, particularly through the broadcast media, designed to motivate our pluralist society and strengthen our shared values. We note the outline plans for the Millennium Affirmation, and support this in principle.

The Association wishes the DCMS and New Millennium Experience Company every success in managing the complex tasks that lie ahead.

© Parliamentary copyright 1998
Prepared 12 August 1998