Following the King’s Speech on Tuesday 7 November, the Catholic Union has issued a statement.
Catholic Union Director, Nigel Parker, comments: “This King’s Speech, the first in over 70 years, sets out many of the challenges and opportunities we will face in Parliament over the year ahead. The Catholic Union will continue to engage with politicians and policy makers in this next session of Parliament to make sure the voices of Catholics are heard.
“Plans for welfare reform to encourage more people into work will be welcomed by many, but this should not be at the expense of family life. We need a benefits system that treats children and families fairly. This needs to include removing penalties such as the two-child cap and the High Income Child Benefit Charge.
“Proposals on migration and criminal justice should not undermine the duty of solidarity we have for all people, especially those on the margins of society. This includes people who are homeless, who were overlooked in this speech.
“In addition to the Bills set out in the King’s Speech, the Catholic Union will continue to champion freedom of religion at home and abroad, support faith schools, and uphold family life. In this year before a General Election, the need for a Catholic viewpoint will be particularly important.”