Cardinal Vincent Nichols has warmly welcomed comments by newly elected British Prime Minister Keir Starmer about wanting a government that collaborates with churches and faith communities. Starmer, leading the Labour Party, secured a landslide victory in the July 4 general election, ending the Conservative Party’s 14-year tenure.

Outgoing Prime Minister Rishi Sunak conceded defeat in a speech outside Downing Street, acknowledging the public’s frustration and taking responsibility for the loss.

Cardinal Nichols expressed optimism about working with Starmer, highlighting the Catholic Church’s longstanding partnership with the UK government, particularly in education where they co-manage over two thousand schools.

Nichols conveyed good wishes and readiness for collaboration in various areas, reinforcing Starmer’s previous affirmations about government engagement with faith communities.

Starmer aims to tackle the economic fallout from Brexit and the COVID-19 pandemic, with plans to reform employment laws, renationalize passenger rail, and establish state-owned energy companies, though he acknowledges economic improvement is crucial for these reforms.

Christine Allen, Director of CAFOD, also extended congratulations to Starmer, emphasizing the urgent need for action on global debt, Sudan’s famine crisis, and the Gaza conflict. She echoed Pope Francis’s view of politics as a ‘lofty vocation’ and expressed hope for collaborative efforts with the new government for the common good.

Cardinal Nichols assured Starmer of his prayers and support as he navigates the challenges ahead.