London, England -- Prime Minister Tony Blair has called for religion to play a more prominent role in national life, an apparent appeal for support from faith-based organisations ahead of an imminent election.
Churches make a "visible, tangible difference" for the better in British society, Blair said in a landmark speech on religion and politics to Faithworks, a Christian group which aims to influence policy at a national and local level.
"I would like to see you play a bigger, not a lesser role in the future," said Blair, who is himself a Christian, on Tuesday.
While such appeals are common in countries such as the United States, the run-up to this general election, expected on May 5, has been marked by an unusual focus on religion and morals in the usually secular world of British politics.
The leaders of the two main opposition parties, the Conservatives and Liberal Democrats, have previously addressed Faithworks gatherings.
Additionally, Conservative leader Michael Howard called a week ago for a reduction on the legal time limit at which abortions can be carried out, a position subsequently supported by the Church of England.
Issues like abortion rarely play a part in elections in Britain, where congregations at established Anglican churches have dropped dramatically in recent decades, although Muslim, Hindu and Sikh communities are far more devout.
Blair's speech, coming so soon before the election, appeared to show his desire to seize the initiative, should religion play a new role in the coming poll.
In the address, Blair praised Christian groups for their role in community and charity work.
"So many of your organisations have the capacity not only to help, but to inspire and to enthuse, by being unashamed about your beliefs, your commitment and your example," he said.
The state could help citizens with many things, but there were limits, the premier said.
"Government can't raise your family, government alone can't get you a job," he said.
"We can help do these things. But increasingly, the ultimate difference has to be made by the creativity, ability and dedication of those on the ground."
Such sentiments echo those widely aired in the United States, where President George W. Bush has sought to closely Christian groups in addressing social problems.
The history of Blair's Labour Party has a strong strand of activist Christian socialism.
The prime minister's personal faith, however, is more traditional, and while he is officially an Anglican he has previously taken Catholic mass.