ACN welcomes appointment of Andy Burnham as Prime Minister

A Catholic charity has welcomed the appointment of Andy Burnham MP as Prime Minister, and said it looks forward to working with his government to put protection of persecuted religious minorities at the heart of UK foreign policy.

Aid to the Church in Need (ACN), which supports Christians and other faith communities suffering persecution, oppression and pastoral need around the world, said Mr Burnham’s premiership presents an important opportunity to renew the UK’s commitment to freedom of religion or belief and to the defence of vulnerable communities caught up in conflict, extremism and discrimination.

In his first speech as Prime Minister, Mr Burnham promised a “new resolution” and a more collaborative approach to government. ACN said that spirit should extend to Britain’s role on the world stage, ensuring that the cries of persecuted religious minorities are heard in Whitehall and acted upon internationally.

John Pontifex, Head of Press and Public Affairs at ACN (UK), said: “We congratulate Andy Burnham on his appointment as Prime Minister and assure him of our prayers as he takes up the responsibilities of office.

“ACN looks forward to working constructively with Mr Burnham, the Foreign Secretary and ministers across government to strengthen practical support for communities at risk, defend Article 18 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and ensure that freedom of religion or belief is not treated as an optional extra but as a core human right.”

ACN said it will continue to brief parliamentarians and policy-makers on the needs of persecuted Christians and other religious minorities, drawing on its project partners, research and international reports to highlight where urgent action is needed.

The charity called on the new government to prioritise stronger diplomatic action where religious minorities are threatened, targeted aid for communities displaced by violence, as well as support for survivors of attacks and abductions, and sustained engagement with faith leaders and civil society groups working for peace and reconciliation.

Mr Pontifex added: “The measure of any foreign policy is how it treats those who have no power, no platform and no protection. Britain has a proud tradition of speaking up for conscience, dignity and human rights. 

“We hope this new government will build on that tradition and give renewed hope to those who suffer in silence.”