politics & policy
What is free speech for?
James Mildred
Date posted: 1 Mar 2023
We all love free speech. It’s a precious thing that aids the mission of the church because it means we can proclaim Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour, largely without fear of police interference.
Free speech also means that we can teach what the Bible says on issues where we are especially counter-cultural, like human identity and sexuality, or being genuinely pro-life.
politics & policy
Winter woe: strikes & Strep A
James Mildred
Date posted: 1 Jan 2023
You’d think as we prepare to celebrate Christmas this year, free from the overhanging threat of Covid-19 restrictions, that there’d be a bit more festive joy and cheer in the air.
Except there’s a lot of angst, depression, and exhaustion. Nowhere is this more obviously illustrated than amongst our political class. What with MPs like Sajid Javid announcing they’re not standing next year (although one Boris Johnson is standing…) and the melodrama (should that be psychodrama?) of three prime ministers in three months, it’s been especially fraught.
politics & policy
CARE enters fifth decade
James Mildred
Date posted: 1 Dec 2022
Why does CARE engage with politicians and bring a Biblical perspective to laws and legislation?
There is one reason among many that stands out to me. As the mission agency to UK politics, we believe that Biblical principles for human flourishing are good for all in society. Respecting the building blocks of society that God has created is the first step towards a fairer and more just society. And if we don’t bring these values into the corridors of power, how will politicians ever hear them?
politics & policy
Assisted dying: opening Pandora’s box
James Mildred
Date posted: 1 Jun 2021
The starting pistol has been fired in the race to legalise assisted suicide.
After appearing before the End of Choice All Party Parliamentary Group, the Health Secretary Matt Hancock then wrote to the national statistician, Ian Diamond, requesting information on the number of terminally-ill patients who had killed themselves because of their diagnosis. Mr Hancock wants a new debate on the issue and there are plenty other MPs who want the same.
politics & policy
Let’s talk about robots...
James Mildred
Date posted: 1 Apr 2020
A few weeks ago, I attended a round table with a panel of experts, exploring a Christian response to artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics.
My primary mission there was to observe and to learn. It was fascinating listening to attendees discuss their fears and hopes for the future. Robotics and AI is a massive subject and it is complicated, too. I suspect the daunting nature of the issue puts many people off. But what is clear is that robots and AI are set to play an increasingly prominent role in our lives. In turn, this will prompt huge questions about the value of work and what it means to be human.
politics & policy
Dark side of the Internet
James Mildred
Date posted: 1 Dec 2019
Without a doubt, one of the most important responsibilities God gives to anyone is the one He gives to parents. Charged with raising their children in the fear of the Lord, theirs is a serious and difficult task. Joy and sorrow often go hand in hand in the mission and task of raising young people.
The challenge of raising children is all the more difficult today because of the Internet. First invented in 1990, it has grown enormously, in ways few predicted when it arrived on the scene. Like most things, there is plenty to enjoy about it. The Internet allows for greater connectivity and for the easier spread of information.
What does a Scriptural analysis of the King's Speech show?
On Wednesday, King Charles delivered the Labour government's first King's Speech in the House of Lords. Part of the State Opening of Parliament, the speech set out the new government's priorities for the months ahead. This was a speech designed to demonstrate that the new government means business. Themed around Labour’s five key missions, there are a grand total of 40 Bills, with four of these being draft ones.
Labour’s missions are as follows: secure sustained economic growth, make Britain a clean energy superpower, build an NHS fit for purpose, make Britain’s streets safe, and break down barriers to opportunity at every stage.