§ 37. Mr. Lindsay Hoyle (Chorley)What recent representations the commissioners have received from trade unions on clergy pay. [17021]
§ Mr. Stuart Bell (Second Church Estates Commissioner, representing the Church Commissioners)The Church's representatives regularly meet representatives of the Manufacturing, Science and Finance union.
§ Mr. HoyleI am sure that my hon. Friend is aware of the report commissioned by the MSF into the poverty 20 suffered by the clergy. One in 10 of the clergy live in poverty: what are the Church Commissioners going to do about it?
§ Mr. BellI am sure that my hon. Friend will be pleased to know that the clergy stipends review group has made several recommendations, including increasing the clergy stipend from the current amount of £16,910 to £20,000. Those recommendations are out for consultation in the wider Church and my hon. Friend's point will be taken into account.