The Archbishop of York Stephen Cottrell has launched a sharp attack on Nigel Farage's migration policies, branding the Reform UK leader's mass deportation proposals as fundamentally flawed. The Church of England's second most senior figure delivered scathing criticism of what he characterised as simplistic responses to the Channel crossings crisis.
Cottrell described Farage's approach as "isolationist, short-term" and "kneejerk" during a Sky News interview. The Archbishop argued that such policies fail to address the underlying "big issues" that drive people to risk dangerous Channel crossings in the first place.
The criticism represents a significant ecclesiastical intervention in the ongoing political debate over migration policy. Cottrell's comments suggest the Church of England views Reform UK's enforcement-focused approach as inadequate to tackle the humanitarian crisis.
Church challenges political response
The Archbishop's critique extends beyond specific deportation proposals to encompass what he sees as Reform UK's broader isolationist stance. His characterisation of the policies as "short-term" suggests concern about the lack of comprehensive, long-term solutions to migration challenges.
The intervention comes as Reform UK continues to make migration policy a central pillar of its political platform. Farage has consistently advocated for tougher enforcement measures, including mass deportations, as a solution to Channel crossings.
Humanitarian versus enforcement approach
Cottrell's comments highlight the tension between humanitarian and enforcement approaches to migration policy. The Archbishop's emphasis on addressing root causes reflects the Church of England's traditional focus on social justice and refugee welfare.
The criticism also provides political context following what sources describe as Farage's recent chaotic Scotland visit, adding to ongoing scrutiny of Reform UK's policy positions and political messaging.
Sources used: "Daily Mail", "Daily Record", "Sky News" Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
