Radiation Free Lakeland sent an open letter to the Bishop in June - there has been no reply. Today representatives from Carlisle Action on Climate Change and Radiation Free Lakeland delivered a letter direct to Carlisle Cathedral.
Carlisle Cathedral - Jesus would be turning the tables over!
“So passing on a legacy of yet more radioactive wastes to our Cumbrian children and grandchildren is hardly an act of Christian charity.
“New nuclear build and associated waste 'disposal' must rank at the top end of all nasty enterprises that have been blessed in the name of Jesus.
“As head of the Church of England in the Cumbrian area your 'blessing' enthusiastically endorses nuclear power which carries on turning freshwater into radioactive water long after any electricity production has ceased.
“Reflecting on the widespread and entirely rational, evidence based concerns of Cumbrians about the dangers of nuclear power and nuclear proliferation, and acknowledging these in your public statements would be a Christian act.”
The letter goes on to ask
"Would the Diocese of Carlisle consider becoming a “Fair Energy Diocese.” By acknowledging that nuclear power is not “emission free” “home grown” or “safe” the church would be taking a much looked for lead. This would help ensure that Cumbria has the opportunity to look after existing hazardous radioactive wastes as safely as possible (rather than trying to disperse them over a wider area to “make room” for new build) and to move on with genuinely sustainable energy".
The letter was accompanied by a painting.