British Catholic politician slams Pope following ‘Equality Bill’ comments
February 02, 2010
A day after Pope Benedict praised the British bishops for opposing an Equality Bill that threatens religious freedom, Stephen Hughes, a Catholic member of the European Parliament, offered public criticism of the Pontiff, as did representatives of various activist organizations.
“As a Catholic, I am appalled by the attitude of the Pope. Religious leaders should be trying to eradicate inequality, not perpetuate it,” said Hughes.
“Inequality is at the root of many social problems,” he added. “Instead of criticizing the UK's plans to improve its legislation, the Pope should ensure that existing EU legislation is properly applied in the Vatican.”
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Further information:
- Pope challenged over equality law (UKPA)
- Anger as Pope slams UK equality law (UKPA)
- Pope confirms travel plans in blunt speech to British bishops (CWN, 2/1)
- In victory for religious liberty, House of Lords blocks Equality Bill provisions (CWN, 1/26)
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Posted by: New Sister -
Feb. 02, 2010 3:16 PM ET USA
Too bad Hughes doesn't have Bishop Tobin to shepherd him...
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Posted by: -
Feb. 02, 2010 11:15 AM ET USA
Hughes must have skipped reading "Animal Farm" during his high school years. It's obvious, however, that His Holiness must have read it closely. Intellect always shows up where it counts and the European Parliament is just not one of those places.