Cardinal welcomes government child poverty proposals
Cardinal Cormac Murphy-O'Connor attended a breakfast seminar at No. 11 Downing Street this morning, for the unveiling of a new Government paper on domestic child poverty, heralded in the Chancellor's pre-budget statement. Welcoming the document, the Cardinal praised the broad principles behind the initiative and encouraged the Government to deliver the proposed policy "at all levels". He said: "I welcome the initiatives being proposed by the Government today to challenge domestic child poverty, thereby ensuring every child the best possible start in life. I note with interest the Government's determination to bring together a number of different policies, but I would want assurances that these will be delivered effectively at all levels. "I am particularly encouraged by the emphasis on supporting marriage and strong family relationships which are crucial in providing the best beginnings for children." The Archbishop of Canterbury, the Chief Rabbi, Moslem leaders and representatives from other churches, together with delegates from five leading children's charities were also scheduled to attend today's meeting.