General Synod (Remote Meetings) (Temporary Standing Orders) Measure

Lord Bhatia Excerpts

Thursday 22nd October 2020 Lords Chamber

[Lord Bhatia (Non-Afl) [V]]

My Lords, the Measure makes provision for the General Synod to meet and transact business remotely in accordance with temporary special standing orders made jointly by the archbishops and officers of the synod. In the era of Covid, this is the right decision. The synod’s business has to continue despite the lockdowns.

As I respect the synod’s work, I have only one comment to make. The amendment safeguarding legislation to take account of the recommendations contained in the 2019 Anglican Church report from the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse is an important issue that should be considered as soon as possible by remote meetings.