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April 2008
On Monday 21st April, Srs Ellen Knox, Tessa Hughes and Clare Jardine
took part in the Religious Lobby of Parliament organised by COR, CAFOD and
Justice and Peace Links.Over 300 religious, Anglican, Catholic, Brothers and Sisters heard three inspiring speakers who explained why climate change matters and what we can do as religious. We then proceeded to the House of Commons where we lobbied our MP's. Unfortunately, Sir Malcolm Rifkind, MP for Kensington and Chelsea, wasn't able to come and meet the eight constituants who had requested a meeting with him. However, his researcher, a very able young man, came to listen to our concerns about climate change and what action we would like Sir Malcolm to take. We stressed the two points which had been made very forceably to us - the 60% planned reduction in carbon emissions isn't enough. We are pressing for 80% reduction. We would also like to see aviation and shipping included in the reduction targets as a large amount of emissions is caused through them. We emphasised that we come to this cause from a religious and a moral standpoint. These are justice issues which impact on the whole of God's creation and on the poorest people in the world. The researcher listened to our views and promised that Sir Malcolm would convey them by letter to Hilary Benn (Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs).
It is not too late to join the campaign, write to your MP and express your concerns. We felt very encouraged by the day, the solidarity of being with and campaigning with other religious from all over England and Wales who all recognise the urgency of this issue. If you want to know more you could go to www.cafod.org.uk/bill