56. Mr. R. C. Mitchellasked the Member answering on behalf of the Church Estates Commissioners whether he will take steps to ensure that when redundant churches are disposed of, the first offer will be made to social and community organisations in the area rather than to commercial interests.
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§ Mr. BishopUnder the Pastoral Measure it is the duty of the diocese concerned to seek a suitable use for a redundant church and to make a recommendation to the commissioners. The commissioners' approval is required, and I can assure my hon. Friend that in principle the commissioners regard social and community purposes as very suitable for a redundant church. Since 1969, 10 redundant churches have been appropriated to civic or community use. Each case must however be considered individually.