CAMPAIGNING couple David and Lorraine Wade spent an afternoon on the House of Commons terrace with their MP in an attempt to change Christian broadcasting laws.

The pair, of Abbey Crescent, Darwen, travelled to London to present a petition signed by more than 1,200 people from their community.

They support the United Christian Broadcasters Ltd (UCB)'s Campaign for Freedom for Christian Broadcasting.

During the trip they lobbied Rossendale and Darwen MP and Broadcasting Minister Janet Anderson, who heads the Government department responsible for the legislation.

"The people of Rossendale and Darwen have made it quite clear that they want the right to choose," said Steve Cox, UCB manager.

"Almost any other group can apply for an ordinary national radio licence, but Christians are banned. No other country in the western world has such draconian laws."

David, the leader of Darwen Community Church, based at Tower View, said they were 'encouraged' by Mrs Anderson's reception to their protest.

He added: "We strongly believe that the present law is unfair. Mrs Anderson was very sympathetic to our views and promised to support us.

"Along with many other people, we think a national Christian radio station will benefit the whole country."

Janet Anderson confirmed the Department of Culture, Media and Sport has agreed to 'carefully' consider the issue.

She added: "We will be looking at this issue as we consider the Broadcasting and Communications White Paper.

"I will also present the Wades' petition to Parliament."

Insiders at Whitehall say the debate is currently the subject of negotiations and believed the rules will change in the near future in the favour of Christian broadcasters.