The MP for Reigate is calling for an end to prayers in parliament.

Writing in The Times, Crispin Blunt says the Anglican prayers that start the day don’t belong in an “independent, open and diverse nation”.

He called them “the price paid to reserve a favourite seat”.

The current system dates from around the reign of Charles II, and has MPs and Peers stand facing the wall behind them while they’re read.

Attendance is voluntary.