Baroness Warsi represents government at inauguration of Pope Francis
Faith and Communities Minister Baroness Warsi is in Rome today (19 March 2013), representing the UK government at the inauguration of Pope Francis.
Baroness Warsi said:
鈥淚t鈥檚 an honour to represent the UK government at the inauguration of Pope Francis and a privilege to witness first-hand this historic event.
鈥淎ll the eyes of the world will be on Vatican City today as up to a million people flock to see Pope Francis installed as the 266th Pontiff.
鈥淭his is a hugely significant moment for the world鈥檚 1.2 billion Catholics, and many more people of all faiths and none.
鈥淛ust over one year ago, I led the UK鈥檚 largest ministerial delegation to the Holy See alongside the Archbishop of Westminster to further our vital relationship.
鈥淣ot only do 10% of Britons identify themselves as Catholics, but the Holy See is our oldest diplomatic relationship, and we work together on numerous areas including development, disarmament and protecting the role of faith in society.
鈥淭he UK government warmly welcomes Pope Francis and wishes him the very best as he embarks on his pontificate.鈥�