Eight in ten people support free speech and robust debate in politics, a poll commissioned by CARE shows.

A Savanta poll of 2,000 UK adults found 77% agree "politicians should be able to speak their minds and freely debate difficult issues”.

CARE has been asking the general public a number of questions in the run up to the General Election on 04 July.

Ross Hendry, CEO of CARE, commented:

“Difference and disagreement are part and parcel of politics. It’s important for politicians to robustly debate different issues to ensure good, democratic outcomes.

“Yet, it does seem harder for people to disagree agreeably than in years gone by. Party leaders and others must seek to restore civility, decency, and good debate to our political discourse.

“We want to see free and fair debate, where people’s views on a whole range of important topics are expressed with humility and respect, and where a plurality of views are allowed.

“At CARE, we believe that free speech, tempered by civility and mutual respect, is a powerful force for good. We’d urge all politicians to commit to this in the next parliament.”

ENDS

Notes for Editors

Savanta polled 2,054 UK adults on behalf of CARE. Full data tables are available on request.

Christian Action Research and Education (CARE) is a social policy charity, bringing Christian insight to the policies and laws that affect our lives.

Contact us: press@care.org.uk