30/10/2024
Bishop of Newcastle, Helen-Ann Hartley, lead bishop in the House of Lords for economics and business, gives initial comment on the Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves's budget statement.
Bishop Helen-Ann said: "First and foremost this budget must be viewed through the lens of how it affects the poorest and most marginalised people in our society.
"I recognise the challenges the Chancellor faces and welcome the focus on education and health.
"Our churches, chaplaincies and schools see, day-in day-out, the impact of poverty in our communities – both urban and rural. They exist to witness to the love of God and his vision of a world in which everyone can experience life in all its fullness."