Eric Pickles says Britain would be a lesser country if we didn't have proud religious voices.
The Communities Secretary has been speaking at an inter faith event at Temple Church in London.
During his speech he said he takes his role as Minister for Faith 'very seriously' and called on people of religion not to hide their beliefs.
He said: "Recent months of religious violence across the world have made many feel pessimistic about the future - especially about the role of faith in Britain. I think that is misplaced.
"I am clear that faith is not something you can leave at the door. It's part of who you are, it's why you get up in the morning, it's what makes you tick.
"I don't want to lose those voices. I want to hear proud Christian voices, proud Muslim voices, proud Jewish voices, proud Hindu voices, and proud voices from all the other faiths that make such an amazing contribution to Britain. Without them, Britain would be a lesser place."
Mr Pickles has regularly spoken up for those with faith. Notably, he intervened on the debate over whether prayers should be said at the start of council meetings.
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