House of Commons · General Debate
28 October 2021 · 3 other contributors
Opened by John Lamont Con Berwickshire, Roxburgh and Selkirk
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
John Lamont raised concerns about church commissioners in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.
Key points
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.
Opened the debate
The debate centres around the steps the Church of England is taking to help ensure tangible outcomes for COP26 and the impact of the COVID-19 outbreak on financial donations. The Archbishop of Canterbury will attend COP26 with Anglican Communion colleagues, and the Church of England encourages its members through initiatives such as eco-churches and the transition pathway initiative, which tracks companies' progress towards net zero emissions.
Asked about the Church's influence on COP26 outcomes and its encouragement of members to support successful results.
Inquired about the impact of the COVID-19 outbreak on financial donations to the Church. He highlighted the importance of a secure financial future for churches and sought an assessment of the progress and impact of the electronic giving system in Cumbria.
Requested information on the distribution of payroll budget within the Church of England, specifically asking for figures related to ordained ministers, staff in diocesan offices and national church institutions.
Government Response
The Archbishop of Canterbury will be attending COP26 with Anglican Communion colleagues. The Church of England encourages its members through initiatives such as eco-churches, where 38 out of 42 dioceses have signed up to be eco-dioceses and funds of $40 trillion are involved in the transition pathway initiative. Regarding financial donations, parish share received by dioceses was 7% below 2019 levels in 2020, and the electronic giving system piloted in Cumbria has seen £30,000 donated since June.