Protests: Tent Pitching

Debate between Baroness Stowell of Beeston and Lord Bishop of Bath and Wells

Thursday 3rd November 2011 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Stowell of Beeston]

Of course we will look carefully at the report to which my noble friend refers. However, I stress that we passed an Act in July of this year that introduced new measures that will put an end to the encampments in Parliament Square. These measures will be commenced shortly and at that time we will, thankfully, bring an end to the disruption that so many people have criticised and rightly complained about over many years.

[The Lord Bishop of Bath and Wells]

My Lords, from these Benches I congratulate the Minister on her appointment. The Church of England maintains a presence in every community in the land. It is a broad church—it is perhaps the original big tent. Is the Minister aware that St Paul was a tent-maker and that St John records that Jesus pitched his tent among us, in a non-designated public space, to rescue us?

[Baroness Stowell of Beeston]

I am very grateful to the right reverend Prelate for his question. Thank you.