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Church of Scotland (Lord High Commissioner) Bill 2025-03-04
04 March 2025
Lead MP
Pat McFadden
Debate Type
General Debate
Tags
Scotland
Other Contributors: 15
At a Glance
Pat McFadden raised concerns about church of scotland (lord high commissioner) bill 2025-03-04 in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Opened the debate
The Bill aims to remove a legal barrier preventing Catholics from holding the office of Lord High Commissioner to the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland. This historic restriction applies only to Catholics and stems from the Claim of Right Act 1689, which has since been partially repealed but not explicitly for this role. The appointment of Lady Elish Angiolini as the first Catholic to hold the position highlights the need for modernisation. The Bill is concise and focused on enabling Catholics to undertake ceremonial duties including addressing the General Assembly and hosting engagements at the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
John Lamont
Con
Berwickshire, Roxburgh and Selkirk
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.
Andrew Bowie
Con
West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine
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.
Alison Taylor
Lab
Paisley and Renfrewshire North
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.
Edinburgh West
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.
Glasgow West
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.
Brendan O’Hara
SNP
Argyll, Bute and South Lochaber
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.
John Grady
Lab
Glasgow East
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.
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.
Rhinbank
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.
Andrew Bowie
Con
West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine
Supported the Bill; highlighted progress towards ecumenical understanding in modern Scotland, acknowledged historical significance of Church's role.
Alison Taylor
SNP
Paisley and Renfrewshire North
Emphasised the Church of Scotland’s contributions to local communities, referenced family ties with the church.
Edinburgh West
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.
Glasgow West
Spoke about suitability of Lady Elish Angiolini for high office, referenced her experience serving in the Scottish Parliament and Cabinet.
Brendan O'Hara
SNP
Argyll, Bute and South Lochaber
Offered support for the Bill; highlighted cross-party credentials of Lady Elish Angiolini as a trailblazer in Scottish national life.
John Grady
Lab
Glasgow East
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.
Government Response
The Bill is on an accelerated timetable to ensure Lady Elish Angiolini's appointment as Lord High Commissioner can be finalised before May. The legislation includes two clauses: one allowing Catholics to hold the office, and another detailing territorial extent and commencement upon Royal Assent. Government minister emphasised support from Members across the House; explained Bill aims to end statutory constraints on religious appointments for Lord High Commissioner position.
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