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Supports the Bill but notes concerns raised by the Law Society of Scotland regarding lack of consultation. Highlights that similar legislation in the past did not have a consultation period either. Emphasises the wide welcome Lady Elish's appointment has received in Scotland, and the significant symbol it represents for unity between the Church of Scotland and Catholic Church.
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Praises the Bill as a continuation of work begun with the Roman Catholic Relief Act 1829. Notes that this is one of few debates in Parliament regarding governance or affairs of the Church of Scotland, highlighting its significance due to the church's established status under Acts of Union and 1707. Acknowledges the unique relationship between the British monarch and both Anglican and Presbyterian Churches.
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Ms Taylor shares her personal connection with the Church of Scotland and highlights its community contributions, such as supporting elderly individuals, young mothers, youth clubs, and international aid. She also emphasises ecumenical dialogue between the Church of Scotland and other faiths, particularly the Catholic Church, and supports amending legislation to allow a Roman Catholic to serve as Lord High Commissioner.
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Ms Jardine expresses her delight at seeing no real party divide in this debate. She highlights the Church of Scotland's role in community life and its progress towards inclusivity. Ms Jardine supports the Bill, recognising Lady Elish Angiolini as a role model for young women and emphasises the importance of addressing wider discrimination in Scottish society.
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Ms Ferguson underscores the absurdity that no Roman Catholic has ever held the post of Lord High Commissioner. She discusses the historical context, including restrictions imposed by the Scottish Claim of Right Act 1689 and later ameliorations such as the Roman Catholic Relief Act 1829. Ms Ferguson supports amending legislation to remove the remaining barriers preventing a Roman Catholic from holding this position.
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Welcomes the Bill but notes that it is embarrassing that anti-Catholic legislation still exists in 2025. Suggests introducing broader legislation to remove all existing discrimination against Catholics. Praises Lady Elish Angiolini’s appointment as an example of progress in Scotland.
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Supports the Bill and highlights that Lady Elish Angiolini's appointment is significant for religious unity. Emphasises the importance of interfaith work at local levels, such as in Glasgow.
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The Bill aims to facilitate the appointment of Lady Elish Angiolini as the first Roman Catholic to hold the historic office of Lord High Commissioner, ending statutory constraints on religious basis for appointments.
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Minister closing debate; thanked Members for their contributions and support. Emphasised the Bill's aim to remove religious constraint for appointment of Lord High Commissioner, praised views on ecumenical understanding in Scotland.
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Supported the Bill; highlighted progress towards ecumenical understanding in modern Scotland, acknowledged historical significance of Church's role.
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Emphasised the Church of Scotland’s contributions to local communities, referenced family ties with the church.
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Described the Bill as an action standing up for the modern Scotland they want to see; praised Lady Elish Angiolini’s pioneering role in national life.
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Spoke about suitability of Lady Elish Angiolini for high office, referenced her experience serving in the Scottish Parliament and Cabinet.
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Offered support for the Bill; highlighted cross-party credentials of Lady Elish Angiolini as a trailblazer in Scottish national life.
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Highlighted Glasgow’s religious diversity and the joy, energy, strength, and beauty it brings to the city's 850th year; advocated for dialogue and understanding.