Displaying items by tag: Michael Volland

The Bishop of Birmingham, Dr Michael Volland, has expressed 'dismay and disappointment' over comments made by Conservative MP Robert Jenrick, who said that during a visit to Handsworth he 'didn’t see another white face' and described the area as 'close to a slum’. Speaking at a Conservative event in March, Jenrick said the district lacked integration, remarks later published by the Guardian. Dr Volland responded in an open letter, inviting Jenrick to revisit Handsworth and meet local residents dedicated to the community’s flourishing. He warned that such rhetoric risks 'stirring up division' and urged leaders to use language that unites rather than divides. The bishop highlighted positive examples of integration, including St Michael’s Church of England Primary Academy, which recently received an Outstanding Ofsted rating. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch defended Jenrick’s comments as 'factual observations’, while others - including the Prime Minister - criticised his judgment. Dr Volland reiterated the Church’s call to build understanding, mutual respect, and community cohesion across all ethnic and faith backgrounds. See