§ 41. Mr. Gerald HowarthTo ask the hon. Member for Middlesbrough, representing the Church Commissioners, what steps the commissioners have taken to ensure that the initial stipend is sufficient to attract new entrants to the clergy. [70532]
§ Mr. Stuart BellClergy stipend recommendations are no longer made by the Church Commissioners, and their functions as Central Stipends Authority have been transferred by the Ministry Division of the Archbishops' Council from 1 January this year. The Central Stipends Authority gives very careful consideration to the question of stipend adequacy, including consultations with dioceses about stipend levels, and measuring the disposable income of clergy with that of other professions. A detailed review of stipend adequacy was last carried out in 1991/92, and it is likely that a further review will take place later this year.
The number of candidates recommended for ordination in 1998 was 343, an increase of 5.6 per cent. on the previous year. This would clearly suggest that the level of stipend is not deterring candidates for ordination.