Remove references to Roman Catholics as popish & papist in British legislation

24
signatures
openCabinet Officeby P H McAuleyOpened 5 June 2026

Background

In the Claim of Right 1689 & Bill of Rights 1689, Roman Catholics are referred to as papists & popish. These references should be removed from these statutes & from any others that are currently in force.

Additional details

It is expressly stated in the countries’ most reputable dictionaries that these terms for Roman Catholics are offensive, yet they are embedded in British legislation in provisions which are stated on the legislation website to be live.

Where it’s popular

Constituencies with the most signatures on this petition.

Source: UK Government & Parliament Petitions service. Petition ID: 769301.