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Written question asked by Ruth Cadbury (Labour) on Monday, 13 October 2025, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 15 October 2025. It was answered by Nick Thomas-Symonds (Labour) on Tuesday, 21 October 2025 on behalf of the Cabinet Office.


Bishops: Public Appointments

Question

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, if he will make an equalities impact assessment of the provisions within the (a) Roman Catholic Relief Act 1829 and (b) Jews Relief Act 1858 in the context of the appointment of bishops within the Church of England on the advice of (i) Catholic and (ii) Jewish Prime Ministers.

Answer

The Government recognises that there are historical restrictions in statute on Roman Catholic and Jewish people making and advising the Crown on Church appointments. The Government will keep this matter under review but, given other pressing issues, this is not a current priority.


Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
81330
Session
2024-26
Subjects
Bishops Equality Public appointments Impact assessments
Legislation
Roman Catholic Relief Act 1829
Jews Relief Act 1858
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk