Welsh bishops warn PM over danger of a no-deal Brexit
WALES’ bishops have told Boris Johnson of their concerns about a no-deal Brexit and what it would mean to Welsh people.
The letter says they feel “compelled” to “express concerns about the unprecedented events of recent days, and the imminent prospect of a no-deal Brexit”.
“Wales is vulnerable to particular dangers. The farming and food production sector, which is significantly more important to the economy than in England or the UK as a whole, is highly dependent not only on EU support, but also on ease of export to mainland Europe.
“Prestige company Airbus, and other businesses in the tech sector, rely on the rapid exchange of parts, personnel and expertise with our European partners, which stands to be lost, especially if we leave the EU without a deal. In addition, Higher Education, small businesses, and the Third Sector are all liable to suffer unless very careful arrangements are made to replace EU funding, agreements and partnership arrangements...
“We ask the UK Government to keep its promise to Wales for ‘not a penny less’ in support than within EU”.
The letter, signed by Bishop of Bangor, Reverend Andy John, goes on: “In accordance with our Christian principles, we are particularly concerned for protection of the poor and vulnerable. Almost every church in the land supports a foodbank; we campaign for and support free school lunches and breakfasts; numerous churches are working to combat ‘holiday hunger’ amongst children and families dependent on school meals during term-time.
“The prospect of shortages of food and medicines, especially if the UK crashes out of the EU without a deal or transition period, is very real; latest estimates also indicate that the price of food and other essentials will go up. There will be job losses, and increased pressure on public services. In the interests of reconciliation and peace, we are concerned for relationships between the countries of the United Kingdom, and for those with other European countries.”
The bishops say that they are “gravely concerned” about any use of parliamentary procedure to “force through government decisions which have not been agreed upon, or even subjected to scrutiny, by Parliament”.
“Whilst it may be true to say that governments cannot choose which public votes they abide by, even elections do not eliminate the opposition; and there can and should be creative opportunities to influence how programmes are taken forward.
“We believe that elected representatives of all political opinions have the best interests of the people at heart. We urge your Government to be transparent, truthful and open in its considerations at this exceptional time”.