Scotland’s Catholic Bishops congratulate new Prime Minister and call for leadership rooted in human dignity

The Catholic Bishops of Scotland have written to the new Prime Minister, Andy Burnham, offering their congratulations and assuring him of their prayers as he begins his term of office.

In their letter, the bishops urge the Prime Minister and his Government to place human dignity at the centre of public life, with particular concern for the poorest and most vulnerable, migrants, refugees and asylum seekers, the unborn, those nearing the end of life, and communities affected by war, poverty and climate change.

The bishops highlight the need for moral clarity and humanitarian concern in response to conflicts in the Middle East, Ukraine, Iran and other parts of the world. They also call for renewed commitment to diplomacy, international law, civilian protection and the pursuit of just peace.

The letter further urges the Government to reverse cuts to foreign aid and restore the United Kingdom’s commitment to spending 0.7% of GDP on international development, while maintaining a strong commitment to climate action, renewable energy and a just transition.

On the protection of life, the bishops ask the Prime Minister to reject proposals to legalise assisted suicide and instead improve end-of-life care, including better funded and more accessible palliative care.

Bishop John Keenan, President of the Bishops’ Conference of Scotland, said: “As a Catholic, the Prime Minister will be familiar with the Church’s enduring commitment to the dignity of every human person and to the promotion of the common good – principles which lie at the heart of Catholic social teaching. We hope these values will underpin his leadership, particularly in serving the poor, the vulnerable and those on the margins of society, and in advancing the cause of peace, justice and reconciliation both at home and abroad.

“We assure the Prime Minister of our prayers for wisdom, courage and integrity as he undertakes the responsibilities of this high office. We look forward to working constructively with him and his Government on the many issues that affect the lives and wellbeing of individuals, families and communities, and we pray that the United Kingdom will continue to use its influence in the service of peace, justice and human dignity throughout the world.”

The full text of the Bishops’ Conference letter to the Prime Minister Andy Burnham is available below. Hover your mouse over the document or tap it on a mobile device to display the navigation controls and access the second page.