Part of Oral Answers to Questions — Church Commissioners – in the House of Commons at 10:30 am on 7 February 2008.
Nicholas Winterton
Conservative, Macclesfield
10:30,
7 February 2008
Is the hon. Gentleman concerned that an inadequate consultation opportunity has been given to the Third Province Movement, whose membership includes a significant number of clergy and laity? Will he please ensure an opportunity for the widest possible consultation on the women bishops' proposal, particularly with those who have prominent and active leadership roles in the Church?
Matters concerning the established Church of England are dealt with at Question Time by a parliamentary representative of the church commissioners.
The church commissioner's role is to answer any parliamentary questions relating to the Church of England in the same way that a government minister may face questions about a particular government department.
The Second Church Estates Commissioner is appointed by the crown and is traditionally a backbench member of the party in government. The appointment lasts for the duration of the Parliament.
