Ukip claims ‘top marks’ from Bishop

Two UKIP MEPs met with Bishop Patrick Lynch last Thursday for a discussion about the party’s policies in which, Ukip claimed, it gained “top marks on the headline issues”, writes James Macintyre.

MEPs Steven Woolfe (North-West England) and Margot Parker (East Midlands) met Bishop Lynch – who has responsibility for migrants – and his team in the bishops’ conference headquarters in Eccleston Square, London.

Mr Woolfe, a Catholic and the party’s migration spokesman, said: “We were welcomed very warmly by Bishop Lynch, laid out our political principles and policies clearly, and answered any questions that we were asked.” He added: “I have no doubt that Ukip gained top marks on the headline issues.”

A church spokesman said the meeting was “helpful and constructive” in line with other such meetings with other parties.