§ 23. Mr. John MarshallTo ask the right hon. Member for Selby, representing the Church Commissioners, what assessment he has made of the financial consequences of the abolition of the parsons' freehold.
§ Mr. AlisonThe financial consequences of any changes to the existing system of freehold will depend on the nature of those changes. A General Synod steering group on clergy terms and conditions of service is examining freehold, among other matters, and the commissioners stand ready to help to assess any financial aspects as and when that group's work is more advanced.
§ Mr. MarshallCan my right hon. Friend confirm that the parsons' freehold and the absence of women priests act as a barrier to effective ministry?
§ Mr. AlisonMy hon. Friend will appreciate that the parsons' freehold is not now an unconditional reality. Parsons who secured livings after 1975—which accounts for the overwhelming majority—are obliged to lose their freehold at the age of 70, so there is already a severe diminution in the absolute reality of the parsons' freehold. Whether or not it will be further reduced remains to be seen when the Synod reaches its conclusion.