§ 31. Mr. ThurnhamTo ask the right hon. Member for Selby, as representing the Church Commissioners, if he will make a statement about the Commissioners' current policy for dealing with redundant churches.
§ Mr. Michael Alison (The Second Church Estates Commissioner, representing Church Commissioners)The commissioners' policy is governed by the Pastoral Measure 1983, which provides for the future of a redundant church to be settled by a suitable alternative use: preservation by the redundant churches fund; care and maintenance by the diocesan board of finance on specified terms; or demolition. The Measure lays emphasise on finding a suitable use for the church, if at all possible, and that is what is most commonly achieved.
§ Mr. ThurnhamIs my right hon. Friend aware of the need for decisions to be speedy enough to meet the needs of congregations once they have made the difficult decision that a church should go?
§ Mr. AlisonThe statutory procedures enshrine the right of anyone—the clergy, patrons, local authorities and heritage and environmental groups — to make representations against draft schemes. That consideration determines the speed at which things happen. Much also depends upon the nature of the building. In simple cases, where a building is felt to lack distinction, its future can often be settled relatively quickly in a matter of months. 15 In more complex cases, where different views are held about the most suitable use, it may take longer to find the right solution. I fear that Holy Trinity, Bolton is a case in point.
§ Mr. Tony BanksAs the right hon. Gentleman is the nearest connection that we have to the Almighty in this place, will he say how it is possible for a house of God to become redundant?
§ Mr. AlisonThe direct connection is a bipartisan one. I did not understand the exact point of hon. Gentleman's supplementary question, but I should say that the redundant churches fund, about which my hon. Friend the Member for Bolton, North-east (Mr. Thurnham) asked, is responsible for many churches, and many find an alternative use after a reasonable lapse of time.