Tributes to Bishop Alan as he raises last question in House of Lords

Bishop Alan Smith (pictured yesterday in the House of Lords) spoke in Parliament for the final time yesterday to question the Government on what steps they are taking to secure Mr Lai’s release.

“I am glad to ask my last Question on the welfare of a British citizen whose only crime is to exercise freedoms that this House has long stood for: freedom of speech and the right to peaceful protest,” he said.

“He is 77, has diabetes and is being held in solitary confinement, and the next stage of his trial is being delayed until August. This is shameful.”

Responding, Deputy Leader of the House of Lords and Foreign Office Minister Lord Collins of Highbury, said Mr Lai’s case is a “priority” for the Government.

“We continue to call on the Hong Kong authorities to end their politically motivated prosecution and release him,” he said.

Lord Collins expressed his gratitude and that of the whole House for all the work done by Bishop Alan.

He was joined by Lord Alton, who spoke of the “outstanding contribution” Bishop Alan has made on this and on "so many" issues over his time in the House of Lords.

Bishop Alan, described as a ‘true legend of the bench” retires at the end of next week after serving as Bishop of St Albans for nearly 16 years, with 12 years in the House of Lords.

During his time in the House of Lords, he has raised a series of issues including problem gambling, agriculture, housing, welfare and human rights.

He was president of the rural coalition and has been a vocal supporter of rural communities.

Bishop Alan was prominent in his campaign for stronger controls on advertising by the gambling industry and curbs to the damage done by Fixed Odds Betting Terminals.

The campaign on FOBTs resulted in the Government agreeing to limit the maximum stake on FOBTs.

Other successful campaigns he led included putting mothers’ names on marriage certificates and outlawing hare coursing.

Church of England Head of Parliamentary affairs, Richard Chapman, said: "Bishop Alan is a great parliamentarian and campaigner and will be missed.

“As a voice for those seeking justice, freedom, or hope for a better society, he’s been a leading example of how the bishops in parliament can make a difference.

“He is a true legend of the Bench and I wish him a happy and peaceful retirement – he’s certainly earned it.”