Bishop of Guildford: Appointment

Debate between Lord Gardiner of Kimble and Lord Morgan

Thursday 3rd July 2014 Lords Chamber

[Lord Gardiner of Kimble]

My Lords, I can safely say that much of this is a matter for the church. There is legislation going back to the 19th century on these matters. At some point perhaps that might be looked at.

[Lord Morgan (Lab)]

My Lords, would it not be desirable if the Prime Minister made no suggestion about appointing the Bishop of Guildford, as would be the case with the disestablished Church in Wales? Would that not greatly liberate the church as an independent body free from the trammels of state interference?

[Lord Gardiner of Kimble]

I am not sure that I am inclined to that view. Obviously the Church in Wales and the Church of England have taken different paths. That is a matter for the Church of England.