Ecclesiastical Bodies (Appointments)

HC Deb 21 June 1978 vol 952 cc202-3W

Mr. Arthur Lewis

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will seek to amend Section 19 of the Equal Opportunities Act so as to allow women to have the same rights as men in appointments within ecclesiastical bodies.

Mr. Merlyn Rees

No. During the passage of the legislation, the Government made it clear that they did not wish to interfere in doctrinal issues.