Over half of Britons say Rule, Britannia should be sung on Last Night of the Proms

Over half of the British public backs 'Rule, Britannia!' being sung on the Last Night of the Proms. 

The BBC has found itself at the centre of a row over its decision to remove the lyrics from the popular anthem for the annual event.

'Land of Hope and Glory' is also to be played minus the lyrics during the Last Night performance. 

The BBC has said that both songs - which have been associated with imperialism - will be sung when the Last Night of the Proms is held again in 2021.

A YouGov survey for The Times found that 55 per cent of Britons did not support the BBC's decision to play only orchestral versions of the songs this year. 

Only five per cent believed that the song should not be performed at all on the night, while 16% said an instrumental version would be the best compromise. 

Responding to the reports, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said "it's time we stopped our cringing embarrassment about our history, about our traditions and about our culture, and we stop this general bout of self-recrimination and wetness".

The Last Night of the Proms is taking place this year without an audience.

'Land of Hope and Glory' topped the iTunes charts this week, with Dame Vera Lynn's rendition taking the number one and number two spots. 

The BBC Proms get underway on Friday at the Royal Albert Hall in London, and will air across BBC platforms. 

The Last Night of the Proms takes place on September 12.

Newsletter Stay up to date with Christian Today
News
Christians encouraged to be bold in public life
Christians encouraged to be bold in public life

Christians were urged to continue “standing and speaking for Jesus” in workplaces, schools, politics and local communities.

Court case launched in support of DRC Christians
Court case launched in support of DRC Christians

DRC forces believed the locals were sympathetic to M23 rebels.

Christians, Jews and Muslims unite in week of solidarity
Christians, Jews and Muslims unite in week of solidarity

The aim is to have a million "acts of hope" this week.

Archbishop of Canterbury pledges solidarity with Britain's Jews
Archbishop of Canterbury pledges solidarity with Britain's Jews

Antisemitic incidents have increased in frequency and deadliness.