AS THE UK prepares to host one of the world’s largest arms fairs, the Department for International Affairs of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales has released a statement saying the sale of weapons for profit causes “grave harm” to humanity. The Bishops also send their prayers and best wishes to those who, “inspired by Christ’s call to be peacemakers” are opposing the event.
The Defence and Security Equipment International arms fair takes place in London on 12-15 September, bringing together governments and military delegations from across the world with more than 1,500 companies selling guns, bombs, and other weaponry.
The full statement from the Bishops reads:
“Pope Francis reminds us that while it may sometimes be legitimate to provide military assistance for countries to defend themselves against aggression, promoting the sale of weapons for profit is immoral and inflicts grave harm upon our human family.
“Through hosting one of the world’s largest arms fairs, our country is complicit in fuelling conflicts around the world which destroy lives, drive people from their homes, trap communities in poverty, and damage the environment.
“We once again send our prayers and best wishes to all those who, inspired by Christ’s call to be peacemakers, are opposing the arms fair.”
Bishop Declan Lang
Chair – Catholic Bishops’ Conference Department for International Affairs
Bishop Nicholas Hudson
Catholic Bishops’ Conference Department for International Affairs
More information on opposition to the arms fair here.
Source: The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales