UK (Parliament Politics Magazine) – British Prime Minister Keir Starmer pays tribute to Pope Francis as a servant of the poor, whose humble leadership brought hope in times of war and suffering.
As reported by The Standard, Keir Starmer called Pope Francis “a pope for the poor” as political figures honoured the pontiff following news of his death.
What did Keir Starmer say about Pope Francis’ leadership?
Labour leader praised Pope Francis for his “courageous” leadership in difficult times, stating it “always came from a place of deep humility.”
He stated,
“Pope Francis was a pope for the poor, the downtrodden and the forgotten. He was close to the realities of human fragility, meeting Christians around the world facing war, famine, persecution and poverty. Yet he never lost hope of a better world.”
The prime minister added,
“With his death, we are reminded once more of his call to care for one another across different faiths, backgrounds, nations and beliefs.”
What did Kemi Badenoch say about Pope Francis’ death on Easter Monday?
Kemi Badenoch, Conservative leader, described the Pope’s death on Easter Monday as “especially poignant,” referring to the significance of the loss.
She posted on X,
“He reminded us that leadership isn’t about power, but about service. When I met him in 2022, he spoke warmly of the UK and the values we share. In a world that too often turns away from faith, he stood firm.”
What did Sir Ed Davey say about Pope Francis?
Sir Ed Davey, leader of the Liberal Democrats, praised Pope Francis as a ‘”eader of compassion and courage,” highlighting his commitment to speaking up for those in need.
He stated,
“His influence reached far beyond the Church. He offered hope by reminding us of strength in kindness and faith. “We should remember his example: stand up for what’s right, care for others, and hold onto compassion and hope.”
Mr Davey added,
“We should remember his example: stand up for what’s right, care for others, and hold onto compassion and hope.”
What did Rishi Sunak say about Pope Francis after his passing?
MPs from all major parties praised Pope Francis’s lifelong commitment to the poor and displaced communities.
Ex-Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said after their 2024 meeting that the Pope championed dignity for all, especially the poor and unheard.
What did Liz Saville Roberts, Pat McFadden, and Tony Blair say about Pope Francis?
Liz Saville Roberts, Plaid Cymru’s Westminster leader, said the Pope’s “voice for the poor and the oppressed across the world will be greatly missed.”
Pat McFadden, among the Cabinet’s most prominent Catholic figures, praised the Pope’s lifelong devotion, saying he “served until the very end”.
Sir Tony Blair, who became Catholic after leaving office, praised his legacy of faith and service. He added,
“Pope Francis was an extraordinary and devoted servant of the Catholic Church, admired both within and beyond it for his humility, compassion, and unwavering commitment to the Christian faith and the service of all humanity — Christian and non-Christian alike.”
Pope Francis early life and background
- Full Name: Jorge Mario Bergoglio
- Birth: December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Parents: Mario José Bergoglio & Regina María Sívori
- Education: Studied chemistry, then entered the seminary; holds a degree in philosophy & theology
Religious career:
- Joined Jesuits: Entered the Society of Jesus (Jesuits) in 1958
- Ordained Priest: December 13, 1969
Election as Pope:
- Papal Name: Chose Francis
- Date Elected: March 13, 2013
- Papal Motto: Miserando atque eligendo
Key aspects of his Papacy:
- Focus on Social Justice: Advocate for the poor, migrants, and environmental issues (Laudato Si’ encyclical on climate change)
- Reformist Stance: Works to modernize Vatican finances, increase transparency
- Interfaith Dialogue: Promotes relations with Muslims, Jews, and other Christian denominations
- Controversies: Balancing progressive & traditional views (LGBTQ+ rights, women’s roles in the Church)
Personal traits:
- Known for simplicity (lives in modest Vatican guesthouse, not the papal apartments)
- Fluent in Spanish, Italian, German, and Latin
- Survived lung infection (young adulthood, led to partial lung removal)