David Cameron ‘making Christians feel persecuted’

David Cameron used an Easter message to hail the “incredible role” played by Christian churches and organisations in Britain and across the world.

“As long as I am Prime Minister, they will have the support of this government,” he said.

However, the Prime Minister was accused on Saturday by a former Archbishop of Canterbury of doing more than any other political leader to make Christians feel persecuted.

In a biting personal criticism, Lord Carey said policies such as legalising gay marriage meant many “doubt his sincerity” in promising to protect their rights. Downing Street, which rejected the former Anglican Church leader’s criticisms, insisted Mr Cameron’s message had been written before the attack and not in response.

In it, the PM said he was “particularly proud” of his government’s decision to protect overseas aid spending to meet an international development commitment.

Citing the Bible, he said: “St Peter reminds us of the hope that comes from new birth through the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

“As Christians, it also reminds us of Jesus’s legacy of generosity, tolerance, mercy, and forgiveness. That legacy lives on in so many Christian charities and churches at home and abroad.

“Whether they are meeting the needs of the poor, helping people in trouble, or providing spiritual guidance and support to those in need, faith institutions perform an incredible role to the benefit of our society.

“As long as I am Prime Minister, they will have the support of this government.

“I am grateful that we have been able to partner with both Christian and non-Christian charities to relieve suffering overseas.”