Church of England: Appointment of Bishops

Baroness Royall of Blaisdon Excerpts

Monday 14th October 2013 Lords Chamber

[Lord Wallace of Saltaire]

I thank the right reverend Prelate for his question. In consulting when preparing for this Question, I was struck by how many of the people I spoke to said, “You have to understand that the workload of a diocesan bishop is enormous and that some wish to retire before the age of 70 because they feel they have done more than they can sustain for more than 10 to 15 years”.

[Baroness Royall of Blaisdon (Lab)]

My Lords, will the Minister join me in congratulating the Church of England on all the splendid work that it does in its dioceses, especially with people who are suffering so much under the austerity programme of this Government? Will he also join me in congratulating the Church of Wales on its vote in favour of women bishops?

[Lord Wallace of Saltaire]

I am very happy to do so, and I look forward to the Church of England following in good time.