The Catholic Union, which was founded in 1870, exists to address the pressing social challenges of the day and equip and protect the ability of Catholics to contribute to those debates and in wider public affairs.

Professor Charles Egbu, Vice-Chancellor of Leeds Trinity, and John Studzinski CBE, Chancellor of Leeds Trinity, joined seven Members of Parliament in being appointed Vice-Presidents at the organisation’s annual general meeting. They will all work to support then Catholic Union’s President, Baroness Hollins.

Professor Egbu said: “It is an honour to have been nominated and appointed as a Vice-President of such an historic institution as the Catholic Union. My Catholic faith is hugely important to me and I am proud to lead Leeds Trinity, a university rooted in the Catholic church. It has a mission to be a diverse and inclusive institution welcoming students from all backgrounds and beliefs and providing a transformational educational experience, forming students and learners whose lives will flourish and find wholeness in their work and world.”

Richard Collyer-Hamlin, Chair of the Catholic Union of Great Britain, says: “Each Vice President brings a wealth of expertise and support to the work of the Catholic Union as we continue to address the pressing challenges of the day. This eminent group includes politicians from across the political spectrum, academia and business. I am most grateful to them for accepting Council's invitation to help the Union in this particular way".

Membership of the Catholic Union is open to practising members of the Catholic laity in Great Britain and includes people from all parts of the country and all walks of life. It includes doctors, nurses, teachers, lawyers, and civil servants – we represent a wealth of lay Catholic experience and expertise.

The Catholic Union Charitable Trust is the Union’s charitable arm. It organises educational projects, lectures and discussions with prominent Catholics and others.