Jo praises local churches at Westminster

5.41.28pm GMT Wed 5th Dec 2007

Cadder Church is one local church closely involved in environmental work

Jo Swinson has paid tribute to the work of Churches in East Dunbartonshire in a debate in Parliament today.

The debate was called to discuss the impact of 'Christianophobia' on communities. During the debate, Jo Swinson praised the role of the Church both locally and in high-profile international campaigns, saying:

"A great deal is contributed by the Church in this country. Campaigns such as Make Poverty History or the movement for more fair trade products show the impact that the Church has had on getting issues to the top of the political agenda and creating a critical mass of people campaigning and taking action on those issues. It can also make companies change their mind-for example, by putting pressure on big supermarkets to stock more fair trade products."

Commenting after the debate, Jo said:

"We are all familiar with words like anti-semitism, but more recently the term 'Christianophobia' has been used to describe the perceived erosion of Christianity from British life.

"In my experience the vast majority of the churches in East Dunbartonshire are involved in projects that benefit the local community, on the environment, fair trade or simply helping friends and neighbours. I think it would be a huge mistake to take for granted the positive work carried out by local churches.

"This was a timely debate given that we are in the run up to Christmas. This is often a time of year when people rue the loss of more traditional Christmas celebrations. I certainly believe that for Christians and those who celebrate Christmas in a more secular way, the message of peace is one that can be shared by all."

Related Links:

Read the full debate in Parliament

Bishopbriggs Churches Together