Quakers say ‘no-deal Brexit’ is ‘huge gamble’
Friends have joined other Christian groups in an open letter to Boris Johnson
Britain Yearly Meeting (BYM) has joined six other Christian groups in signing an open letter to the new prime minister describing a ‘no-deal Brexit’ as ‘a huge gamble’ that will hit those in poverty ‘very hard indeed’.
The church leaders say they have been ‘compelled’ to write to Boris Johnson because of his position that leaving the European Union without a deal is acceptable. The letter states: ‘At a time when increasing numbers of families have difficulties putting enough food on the table, we believe it is irresponsible to consider a course of action that is expected to make that situation worse.’
The church leaders say that ‘it is notable that assurances about our ability to cope with a no-deal Brexit, while frequent, are yet to be supported by substantial evidence’ and ask the government to publish evidence of the impact of a no-deal Brexit on disadvantaged communities.
Specific concerns raised include: food supply, medical supplies (pricing and availability), and energy. The letter also invites the prime minister to visit one of the many social action projects run by churches to support the millions of citizens living in poverty.
Signatories include leaders from: the Methodist Church of Great Britain; the United Reformed Church; the Baptist Unions of Great Britain, Scotland and Wales; the Church of Scotland; the Salvation Army; and the Scottish Episcopal Church.
Comments
This initiative is most welcome but including other faith communities would have a greater impact. Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam, Judaism and Sikhism all subscribe to the golden rule: Do unto others as you would have others do unto you.
By TWJ 123 on 4th August 2019 - 15:49
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