We should let your churches and faith-based organisations set up new schools

William Hague

Mr Hague was speaking at the Faith in the Future conference of black evangelical Christians in Brighton on Friday.

The Tory leader again stated his opposition to the repeal of the law which forbids the promotion of homosexuality in schools, a view which is supported by many evangelical Christians.

Turning to his main theme of giving churches a stronger role in society, Mr Hague said: "What message are we sending to young people when so many children today grow up outside the framework of love and security and support?

"I believe society should actively support organisations like your churches and charities that provide these children with help and encouragement."

Churches had "a pivotal role to play" in helping such youngsters, he said.

Moral support

"We should let your churches and faith-based organisations set up new schools.

"The second thing we should do is to give society's full support to faith-based welfare programmes.

"The welfare state provides people with financial support but not moral support."

Mr Hague, who has recently turned to American evangelical leaders for policy ideas, echoed Prime Minister Tony Blair's prediction that the UK would have a black prime minister one day.