The Archbishop of York, Dr John Sentamu, who is a real gem when it comes to standing up for the rights of the poor and sidelined has declared that low pay is a 'scourge on our society'. As I write this the very controversial programme titled 'Benefits Street' is being screened on Channel 4 and there is a torrent of insults coming through on Twitter about those who do not work and claim benefits. Some are so incensed that their 'taxes are paying for these people'. Sometimes it seems as if being 'in work' has become the new definer of high moral values. Work is the new religion. Ironic then that most people on benefits are, actually in work. However, working for low pay just does not pay the bills given the rise in living so this is where the state steps in with the benefit system. Dr Sentamu is right to speak out because the working poor are a conveniently forgotten fact in the quest for lower public spending. I hope that Dr Sentamu's views get an airing at General Synod this week.
An Asian Christian woman living in London blogging about the everyday issues of religion
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