News by email Donate

Suggestions

Cardinal-Vincent-Nichols-main_article_image.jpg
Catholic Church in England and Wales
World News

Head of Catholics: politicians "almost trading in fear" over migrant crisis

by Hannah Tooley

Cardinal Vincent Nichols spoke about the rising tide of hatred directed at foreigners in the wake of the European Union (EU) referendum campaign.

Earlier in the year the UK decided to leave the EU by a 52 per cent to 48 per cent vote. 

The Archbishop of Westminster said news stories about migrants were constantly negative and did not reflect reality of people fleeing difficult situations.

Speaking to the BBC: "It's doing nobody any good, this somewhat self-indulgent way in which people have begun to express themselves and their distaste, their hatred of people who they see as different.

"That is creating a kind of a cultural fear among people who have been welcome here.

"What we seem to be living with is a kind of popular leadership which is basing itself on fear. It is almost trading in fear."

AP Photo/Santi Palacios
Refugees board a bus taking them to a camp where they will be registered by police

He went on: "Leadership of fear is the worst kind of leadership because it actually undermines, it corrodes away the goodness that is in this country and that good leadership would actually foster.

"Sometimes it is the media that gives opportunity and creates an environment in which every item of news about migrants in this country is negative.

"That is, I think, untrue to the reality of this country, and corrosive of our best nature and our best contribution."

The Catholic leader has often spoken out about embracing migrants and refugees and helping to incorporate new vibrant cultures.

A Monthly Gift Of $11 Makes A World Of Difference

In a world of fake news there’s never been a greater need for quality Christian journalism. Premier’s mission is to provide the Church with the most up to date and relevant news, told from a Christian perspective. But we can’t do it without you.

Unlike many websites we haven't put up a paywall — we want to keep our journalism free at the point of need and as open as we can. Premier’s news output takes a lot of time, money and hard work to produce. No one in the USA is sharing news like we are across radio, magazines and online so please help us to continue that today.

For a monthly gift of $11 or more we’d also be able to send you a free copy of the brand new Premier Bible, a wonderful Anglicised version of the NLT packed with exclusive bonus content, reading plan and resources to help you get the most out of scripture.

Your monthly support will make a world of difference. Thank you.

Support Us
Continue the conversation on our Facebook page

Related Articles

Sign up to our newsletter to stay informed with news from a Christian perspective.

News by email

Connect

Donate

Donate