Thread by @tinastowell

Last night @UKHouseofLords debated a probing amendment to the Police & Crime Bill about access for religious ministers to crime scenes to attend victims at risk of dying. I opened the debate, referring back to the day we paid tributes to Sir David Amess. 🧵

I made clear I didn’t think this was a matter for legislation, but went on to explain why it was important not to ignore what had happened.

During her own contribution, Lady Masham made this powerful point:

In the debate that followed so much more than I expected was raised and discussed. The Bishop of Leeds @nickbaines called for greater religious literacy:

Lord Moylan @danielmgmoylan asked a profound question: “who owns a death?”

Baroness O’Loan, Northern Ireland’s first Police Ombudsman drew on the experiences of the Province and said why access to religious ministers at crime scenes can and should be possible.

My Noble Friend @baronessnewlove gave a moving account of her own experiences, and told us why process and procedure sometimes comes at too high a price. Here’s her short speech in full.

Lord Touhig spoke movingly about his family, and reinforced the need for common sense rather than legislation.

Lord Paddick @brianpaddick was supportive, and emphasised the need for police officers to understand people’s religious needs, and religious leaders to understand the needs of the police at crime scenes - which should be possible to achieve.

Lord Coaker @Vernon_Coaker gave his support, and argued why this was too important for it to become bureaucratic issue and, in turn, an excuse to do nothing.

My great and Noble Friend the Minister @SusanBaroness was suppportive and thoughtful in response. She’s agreed to a meeting to take matters forward and referenced the work already underway.

In concluding the debate I emphasised again the importance of legislators/public figures speaking up when something’s not right. Even if it doesn’t require legislation - we can sometimes make a difference by what we say. I hope this is a fitting tribute to Sir David Amess.

Here is the debate in full. If you have time, I think it’s worth a read. I am very grateful to all who participated. hansard.parliament.uk/Lords/2021-11-…