§ Mr. BakerTo ask the hon. Member for Middlesbrough, representing the Church Commissioners what account he takes of scripture in making investment decisions. [22940]
§ Mr. Stuart BellThe Commissioners' ethical investment policy is exercised in the context of their duty to manage their inherited assets to provide financial support for the clergy of the Church of England, especially in areas of need and opportunity.
Reconciling their legal duty to achieve the best return for their beneficiaries with their Christian heritage and with the views of Church people is central to the Commissioners' mission.
The Ethical Investment Working Group set up in October 1994 as a joint venture between the Commissioners and the other central Church investing bodies keeps their ethical investment policy under constant review.