Oral Answers to Questions

Lord Elliott of Ballinamallard Excerpts

Thursday 17th March 2016 Commons Chamber

[Fiona Bruce (Congleton) (Con)]

1. What plans the Church of England has to engage with communities that are most in need; and if she will make a statement.

[Tom Elliott (Fermanagh and South Tyrone) (UUP)]

5. What plans the Church of England has to engage with communities that are most in need; and if she will make a statement.

[Jeremy Quin (Horsham) (Con)]

7. What plans the Church of England has to engage with communities that are most in need; and if she will make a statement.

--- Later in debate ---

[Mrs Spelman]

Yes, I could not agree more. This school, in the Chester diocese, near my hon. Friend’s constituency, is an example of best practice. I was struck by its introduction of a leadership programme for 14 to 16-year-olds. It takes them to Lancaster University for four days and helps them to fulfil their potential and play an active role in their community and wider society.

[Tom Elliott]

Will the right hon. Member tell us whether the Church has any specific programmes dealing with the homeless or those with long-term addictions, such as alcohol or drug abuse?

[Mrs Spelman]

I cannot speak for the Church of Ireland. Obviously, I am speaking from the experience of the Church of England, whose social action does indeed cover the most vulnerable people in our society. Right here, in the diocese of London, it is possible for Members of Parliament to see the work the Church of England does among the homeless. That is replicated in all the dioceses within the Church of England, and I imagine that the same happens in the hon. Gentleman’s own nation.