My letter ‘Religion in a secular state’ was written before the joint declaration of Pope Francis (February 15) and Patriarch Krill of Moscow and all Russia (spiritual leader of 125 million Orthodox Christians) was heard.

There seems to be complete symmetry in their moral stance on a wide range of political and religious subjects including the embryo freezing issue and manipulation of human life. They are determined to continue defending human life and marriage between one man and one woman forever.

“We call on all to respect the inalienable right to life. Millions are denied the very right to be born into the world. The blood of the unborn cries out to God.” (Gen 4:10).

“We are also concerned about the development of biomedical reproduction technology, as the manipulation of human life represents an attack on the foundations of human existence created in the image of God. We believe that it is our duty to recall the immutability of Christian moral principles, based on respect for the dignity of the individual called into being according to the Creator’s plan.”

This gargantuan spiritual and political impulse should be the guiding light to all legislators worldwide including local MPs.