He says it unlikely a no-deal 'will lead to reconciliation or peace'
The Bishop of Exeter, the Right Reverend Robert Atwell, is among 20 Anglican bishops who have signed an open letter raising concerns about the potential cost of a no-deal Brexit for the most vulnerable in society, including those here in Devon.
The letter voices support for the Archbishop of Canterbury who, at the invitation of a group of senior MPs, has agreed in principle to chair a Citizens’ Forum on Brexit.
The bishops state: “As bishops with pastoral responsibilities in communities across urban and rural England, we respond to the call by Jesus to tell the truth and defend the poor.
“Our main social and political priority must be to leave well, paying particular attention to the impact of political decisions on those most vulnerable.”
“It is unlikely that leaving (the EU) without an agreement, regardless of consequences, will lead to reconciliation or peace in a fractured country.”
Bishop Robert, who is the lead bishop for Rural Affairs in the Church of England, said: “Travelling around Devon, I am conscious that, although the majority of people in the county voted to leave the EU, the impact of a no-deal Brexit is generating profound unease, particularly in some parts of the farming community.”
The bishops have called on politicians to pay attention to the concerns they raise and say they encourage a “recovery of civil debate and reconciliation.”
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