§ 22. Mr. Chapmanasked the hon. Member for Wokingham, as representing the Church Commissioners, what amount and percentage increase there has been in the recommended national minimum stipend for incumbents between April 1979 and April 1982.
§ The Second Church Estates Commissioner, Representing the Church Commissioners (Sir William van Straubenzee)Between April 1979 and April 1982 the recommended national minimum stipend for incumbents increased by £2,200 to £5,500 per annum. This represents an increase of 66⅔ per cent.
§ Mr. ChapmanWill my hon. Friend confirm that that increase is well above the rate of inflation during the comparable period? If so, does that not represent a considerable achievement? Does my hon. Friend agree that although, by any standard, £5,500 is a low stipend, it is essential that the Church of England should encourage more giving from its members and should have sensible investment policies? That is the best long-term help that can be given to such incumbents.
§ Sir William van StraubenzeeIt must be remembered—as my hon. Friend has implied—that 664 housing free from any outgoings must be added to that sum, which probably represents about £3,000 per annum. During the years in question there was a 49 per cent. increase in the retail price index, which means that in real terms the increase was 11 per cent.
§ Mr. StokesWill my hon. Friend confirm that incumbents do not have set working hours like those working in other professions, and are not paid overtime?
§ Sir William van StraubenzeeYes, Sir. In that sense, they are like Members of Parliament.