He used, moreover, to take communion, which only Catholics may do until Cardinal Hume reminded him of the rules.

ECONOMIST: How widespread is anti-Catholicism in Britain?

The home secretary said Cardinal Hume had agreed the revised clause was the "best that can reasonably be achieved to reinforce the protection given by the Convention".

BBC: News | UK Politics | MPs approve Human Rights Bill

Head of the Catholic Church in England and Wales, Cardinal Basil Hume, had written to him supporting the redrafted clause, after having taken legal advice, said Mr Straw.

BBC: News | UK Politics | MPs approve Human Rights Bill

Last month, Cardinal Basil Hume, the leader of Catholics in England and Wales, was appointed to the Order of Merit, whose membership is chosen by the queen and limited to 24.

ECONOMIST: How widespread is anti-Catholicism in Britain?

In his first sermon as leader of the Roman Catholic Church in England and Wales since the death of Cardinal Basil Hume, the Most Rev Cormac Murphy-O'Connor said Easter was a time for faith, silence and prayer.

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