Oral Answers to Questions

Derek Thomas Excerpts

Thursday 7th July 2016 Commons Chamber

[Mr Speaker]

I hope the whole House wishes to congratulate Tomlinson junior. That is now on the record.

[Derek Thomas (St Ives) (Con)]

8. What work the Church of England is undertaking to help improve the life chances of people in disadvantaged communities.

[Mrs Spelman]

The Church of England’s House of Bishops recently published a new discussion paper, “Thinking afresh about welfare”, which is intended to help discussion across the Church as it engages with the Government’s life chances agenda.

[Derek Thomas]

The Church of England and other denominations and faith groups have always led the way in helping our most vulnerable people. Does my right hon. Friend agree that faith groups and voluntary organisations are ideally placed to help the Government improve life chances for all, including the homeless, young people and people with disabilities?

[Mrs Spelman]

Yes. The diocese of Truro is particularly committed to improving the life chances of children and young people living there, including on the Isles of Scilly. That is lived out principally through the schools, which are committed to building character and improving employment skills. However, I did just notice that there is a homeless breakfast initiative in Penzance, so these efforts are not confined to children, but also extend to adults.