§ Mr. Simon HughesTo ask the right hon. Member for Selby, representing the Church Commissioners, what is the procedure for approving and monitoring bishops'(a) capital and (b) revenue expenses. [10951]
§ Mr. AlisonThe Commissioners' spending on episcopal housing and expenses—both capital and revenue—is subject to close budgetary control. Budgets follow detailed consultation each year with the bishops and, in the case of episcopal housing, with See house surveyors-architects. The See house budgets are the minimum the Commissioners feel is consistent with the proper maintenance of those properties. Working expenses budgets aim to enable the bishops effectively to perform their duties. After initial consideration by the Bishoprics Committee the budgets are recommended to both the General Purposes Committee and the Board of Governors for approval.
Expenditure is closely monitored, including a quarterly audit of those official expenses met directly by the bishops themselves. The Bishoprics Committee receives quarterly reports outlining the capital and revenue position and separate reports on items of major expenditure.