While the UK backed ambitious plans to cut greenhouse gas emissions at the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Germany earlier this month, the Christian group said the recent publication of the government’s long-awaited Clean Growth Strategy revealed that UK policies will not cut emissions fast enough.

Paul Parker, Recording Clerk for Quakers in Britain said: “Whilst communities at home and overseas are already facing the impacts of climate change, the UK risks falling well short of its obligations to cut emissions.”

“We all share a real concern on the state of our oceans and the relationship this has to our efforts with #ClimateChange” – @FijiAG on the #OceanPathway Partnership launched at #COP23 https://t.co/j6121rWFBx

— COP23 (@COP23) November 22, 2017

The climate deal requires international cooperation to keep global warming to well below 2°C above preindustrial levels by the end of the century, and to pursue efforts to limit this further to 1.5°C.

Quakers in Britain said the inclusion of the 1.5°C target reflected the growing recognition that 2°C still poses the threat of extensive sea level rises, crop failures and extended heat waves around the world.

Parker said in a statement that people of faith should be concerned if the UK undermines its global commitment to the Paris climate deal.

He added: “As people of faith, we call on the government to redress this injustice.

“The government is right to seek leadership in UN climate…

The Rt Rev Richard Chartres, who retired in March this year, will sit as an independent crossbencher.

Lord Chartres, 70, was flanked by supporters Baroness O’Neill of Bengarve and Lord Luce as he swore the oath of allegiance to the Queen.

As bishop of London, he was one of the 26 senior members of the Church of England, known as the Lords Spiritual, entitled to sit on the red benches of the unelected upper house. Others include the Archbishops of Canterbury and of York.

Elaine Fossett told the MailOnline that the 46-year-old Songs of Praise presenter was “as capable of sexual harassment as Mother Teresa”.

Referring to a report of inappropriate behaviour made against her son-in-law, the 74-year-old also said: “It is utterly, utterly appalling.

“It is destroying my family’s life… they are going through hell and most undeservedly so.”

The Walking In The Air singer said on Sunday that he was “deeply sorry” for any upset caused but strongly denied any inappropriate contact.

A spokesman said for Mr Jones, who married his wife Claire in 2001, had voluntarily agreed to stay off-air, pending an investigation by the BBC.

In a statement, they added: “Whilst he accepts that his behaviour over a decade ago was occasionally juvenile, as was that of others, he never intended to harass or distress and he strongly denies any inappropriate contact.

“He is, however, deeply sorry for any upset caused and hopes this matter is resolved soon.”

The spokesman said the allegation, which dates back more than a decade, did not relate to broadcast work.

The blaze at St Mary’s Church Hall on St Alphonsus Road in Clapham early on Tuesday has prompted crews to warn against leaving flames unattended.

A spokesperson for London Fire Brigade said: “Candles are one of the most common causes of fire.

“It’s really important that you never leave a candle unattended and put them out before going to sleep.

“Candles should be kept well away from curtains and anything else that can easily catch fire.”

Candle warning issued following #Clapham church hall fire, one man leaves building before crews arrive https://t.co/rPwlC2UwMT pic.twitter.com/JaWkEzXT7r

— London Fire Brigade (@LondonFire) November 21, 2017

One person was treated by paramedics at the scene for smoke inhalation after flames damaged a room on the first floor of the two and three-storey building.

Crews from fire stations in Clapham, Brixton and Battersea were called to St Mary’s Church Hall shortly before 5.30am on Tuesday.

They say the fire was under control by 6.36am.