I completely agree with you about the importance of parish churches, which I know play a significant and distinguished role in bringing communities and generations together here in the Cotswolds and beyond.

Ultimately, it is a matter for the Church of England to address the issues you raise. However, I would like to assure you that the Government is committed to strengthening engagement between national government, local government and faith groups. Indeed, these ties are being strengthened through the £1.3 million Faith New Deal Fund which is funding projects led by faith-based organisations to tackle social issues, ranging from combating loneliness and isolation to providing debt advice.