Welsh Bishops Urge Government to Withdraw Rwanda Bill

The Bishops of the Church in Wales are calling for the UK Government to withdraw the Rwanda Bill. In a statement released on Monday, 29th January they express their “deep concerns” about the proposed legislation.

Rwanda Bill statement

Increasing migration presents a uniquely painful dilemma for politicians, for public officials and for our society as a whole. We recognise that this is a situation which is complex. Nonetheless, the bishops of the Church in Wales wish to express deep concern about the proposed legislation which seeks to send immigrants to Rwanda. We note the Supreme Court ruling that asylum-seekers sent to Rwanda would face a real risk of ill-treatment if sent back to their country of origin. We would further note that we also already award asylum status to refugees from Rwanda. We remain convinced that there is a strong moral argument that sending human beings to a third country abdicates responsibility. Our faith moves us to call on all those involved to ensure that the interests of those who are most in need are never overlooked. We urge the government to withdraw this legislation.

The Archbishop of Wales and Bishop of Bangor, Andrew John

The Bishop of St Asaph, Gregory K Cameron

The Bishop of Monmouth, Cherry Vann

The Bishop of Swansea and Brecon, John Lomas

The Bishop of Llandaff, Mary Stallard

The Bishop of St Davids, Dorrien Davies