In an outspoken attack, the Rt Rev Nigel McCulloch said the group had 'a racial analysis at the core of its philosophy' that was incompatible with British democracy.
He called for all mainstream parties – and people of all faiths – to reject the BNP in European Parliament elections this summer.
The bishop was speaking at a meeting of the full council at Manchester town hall.
"There are those who do not share our vision of Manchester and who will seek political success by preaching a message of division and hatred," he said. "They will use racism and other prejudice to challenge the very diversity which strengthens our city.
"They will exploit the difficult times which presently face our country, trying to turn one community against the other.
The bishop denied his attack was 'over the top' and simply giving the BNP 'the oxygen of publicity'.
He compared the situation to pre-war Germany, quoting a pastor who regretted failing to speak out against the Nazis.
"I don't need to remind you that the Nazi party was democratically elected by the German population," he added. "That is why a key task for us must be to deliver the maximum possible turnout at the European elections in June."
Bishop Nigel is the first bishop in living memory to address a council meeting in Manchester.
He was speaking in support of the cross-party 'Hope not Hate' campaign, which is seeking to marginalise the BNP and other extremist groups.
The council went on to pass a motion condemning those who 'deliver messages of hate aimed to divide our communities and whip up intolerance and violence against our neighbours'.
FULL STORY HERE: http://www.hopenothate.org
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1 comment:
Surely "bashes"
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