I congratulate the hon. Member for securing this debate, expressing unease about non-elected bishops changing laws.

The MP acknowledges the importance of faith in British life, citing the role of bishops during community crises. He argues that while the constitution has evolved slowly, discussing its elements is necessary to maintain public confidence in democracy. The MP believes in the role of a second Chamber but notes concerns about its size and composition, advocating for reform to better represent all nations and regions.

Acknowledges that religious representation in other jurisdictions exists but suggests it is not unique to the UK; argues bishops are generous and give way during debates. Mr Selous highlighted that the issue of bishops in the House of Lords is not a top priority for his constituents. He noted that despite historical precedents, today only 3% of peers are bishops and few often vote. Mr Selous disputed the claim that faith is dying in England and Wales, citing census data showing a majority declare religious faith. He also argued that other major denominations do not advocate for removing bishops from the Lords.

Chris Loder emphasised the importance of having an objective debate about why constituents and members of the Church feel increasingly strongly about bishops in the House of Lords. He disagreed with some political views expressed by bishops, believing it alienates them from their communities. Loder highlighted that not everyone agrees with pro-immigration messages delivered by certain bishops and noted that many have issues within their own dioceses.

Thanking the Second Church Estates Commissioner for giving way, Martin Docherty discusses the role of the established Church of Scotland and its approach to creating a better society compared to sitting in an unelected Chamber. Expressed concern about the influence of bishops from the Church of England on legislation affecting Scotland, citing a specific example where they had more say than Scottish MPs regarding the Scotland Act 2016. Highlighted that while the Anglican Church has reviewed its own legislative role, it continues to participate in governance across the UK, questioning this practice for nations like Scotland and Northern Ireland. The hon. Member questioned why Anglican bishops who have no moral or theological authority in Scotland are involved in making laws that affect Scotland and Northern Ireland. Asked the Minister if the 23 bishops of the Anglican Church sitting in the House of Lords should participate in legislation impacting Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales.

He supports reform of the House of Lords but argues that targeting bishops for removal would leave the upper chamber filled with Conservative donors and political patronage. Neil Coyle believes bishops represent dioceses, providing them with a constituency to reflect in the House of Lords. He highlights specific contributions made by bishops on issues such as nurse strikes and Home Office failures. The MP welcomes Bishop Christopher of Southwark's work and commends his involvement in community rebuilding efforts after the London Bridge terror attack. Neil Coyle also mentions that bishops support plans for tackling homelessness, cladding removal fees, and human trafficking, adding that it is disappointing to focus on removing bishops based on their faith rather than addressing issues like political donors and non-performing peers. Inquired about the Minister's stance on silencing Church leaders from speaking about immigration and referenced a nativity story to make his point.

The SNP position is clear: the House of Lords should be abolished. There is no place for an unelected legislature, let alone one that grants membership to religious clerics as a right. The hon. Member acknowledges the role and respect due to faith leaders but argues against bishops' ex officio roles in the Lords. He notes the anomaly in granting special privileges to bishops in the House of Lords and questions the relationship between Church and state. Patrick Grady concludes that any reform would need to address the powers held by the Prime Minister and the Government, which they are unlikely to give up.

Thanks Aaron Bell for his speech, advocating for pluralistic representation in a diverse religious society.