§ Lord Kennetasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether they are content that Diocesan Chancellors should award costs against statutory amenity societies who bring to their attention the historic and architectural importance of churches and church furniture which church authorities are wishing to remove, alter or dispose of; and whether they consider that this practice accords with the Church of England's arrangements for the protection of the buildings in their care. [HL2819]
§ Lord McIntosh of HaringeyThe jurisdiction and powers of consistory courts and chancellors are laid down in ecclesiastical legislation and the Government are not answerable for the way in which they are exercised. We are nonetheless aware of the concern prompted by a recent case involving the award of costs against one of the national amenity societies. It would not be right for me to comment on that case in view of the possibility of its becoming the subject of an appeal. However, we are following developments with interest. If it appears that any general issues arise out of the case, my department will take these up with the General Synod in the course of continuing discussions on last year's Newman Report on the ecclesiastical exemption.