(Torbay) (Con): Whether the
Church of England is taking steps to support parishes
experiencing antisocial behaviour and drug-related crime in and
around church buildings.
The Second Church Estates Commissioner (): The Church of England is
proud to have a presence in every part of the country, but sadly
that means that our churches and clergy are sometimes targeted in
unpleasant ways. Working with the police and local authorities,
the Church recognises that it has a duty of care to all its
staff, and it will always do everything it can to protect and
assist them.
: It is right that parish
churches offer a beacon of hope and light to those going through
the dark tunnel of addiction, reaching out the hand of Christian
fellowship, but that can result in both clergy and church
buildings being targeted by darker forces who see that as a
threat to their trade. What further steps does my hon. Friend
believe dioceses could take to ensure the personal safety of all
involved?
: I am extremely sorry to
learn that clergy and church buildings are being targeted in this
way in my hon. Friend’s constituency. I thank the leadership and
all the members of Paignton parish church for the inspirational
work that they are doing in supporting those who are sleeping
rough, and in tackling drug and alcohol addiction. That is
important and necessary work, and I commend my hon. Friend for
doing it. I am sure that the diocese of Exeter and Devon and Cornwall
Police will be able to offer further help as they
undertake that challenging work.
