Prioritise peace, equality and climate justice, Quakers urge Andy Burnham
Quakers in Britain have called on the new Prime Minister Andy Burnham to place peace, equality and climate justice at the centre of his government's policies.
The faith group said some positive steps had already been taken on climate action, including ending new North Sea oil and gas exploration licences.
However, it argued that further measures are needed, including halting development of the Rosebank oil field.
Quakers also expressed concern about a growing emphasis on military spending, alongside policies that have restricted human rights and left the asylum system cruel, ineffective and chaotic.
Paul Parker, recording clerk for Quakers in Britain, said: "Our faith compels us to uphold human dignity, welcome the stranger and work for a world where conflicts are resolved without violence.
“As Andy Burnham's government begins its work, we hope it will choose the path of peace-making, climate justice and equality, recognising that every person is precious and that future generations depend on the decisions made today."
Peace and diplomacy
Quakers have joined Christian groups calling on the new Prime Minister to make peace and diplomacy the guiding principles of the UK's foreign policy.
An open letter organised by the Network of Christian Peace Organisations (NCPO) argues that growing challenges, including conflict, the climate emergency and social divisions, require a new political response.
The letter, signed by Paul Parker and the Quaker Asylum and Refugee Network, calls for:
- A renewed commitment to multilateral diplomacy.
- An economic approach shifting investment away from fossil fuels and military spending towards public health, education and sustainable infrastructure.
- Policies that celebrate diversity and support migrants and refugees rather than scapegoating them.