MPs to send message of congratulations to Pope for his 80th birthday

Rob Flello MP

In an Early Day Motion, MPs of all parties have agreed to send message of congratulations to Pope Francis ahead of his 80^th birthday

The motion signed by MPs from five different parties also recognises the Pope's leading contribution to tackling climate change, promoting sustainable development, welcoming refugees, building peace, encouraging prison reform, protecting religious freedom, and advancing global abolition of the death penalty.

Catholic MP Rob Flello, who sponsored the motion said: "In wishing His Holiness Pope Frances a very Happy Birthday can I also both thank him for his clear and merciful leadership of the Church and assure him of my prayers on his Birthday and everyday. May God Bless him and continue to fill his heart with divine joy."

The full text of the motion reads: That this House congratulates His Holiness Pope Francis on his 80th birthday; recognises his spiritual leadership of over 1.2 billion Catholics worldwide; commends his leading contribution to tackling climate change, promoting sustainable development, welcoming refugees, building peace, encouraging prison reform, protecting religious freedom, and advancing global abolition of the death penalty; and wishes him well for his continued Pontificate.

Link: www.parliament.uk/edm/2016-17/745