CofE exemption from equality laws should finish...

[CogitoErgoSometimes]

Article

Frank Field and several other MPs have signed an early day motion to finish the CofE's exemption from equality laws after the General Synod's disastrous decision to continue to ban women from being appointed bishops

Having not realised that such an exemption applied I think the CofE, being in such a privileged position in our society, has to be brought in line. Either that or it they separate from the state fully, persist with their own out-dated standards, and waive such things as places in the House of Lords.

[redlac]

agree completely!

[FireOverBabylon]

Agree, there was a piece on the radio the other night about how can we have bishops being given a place in the House of Lords when they discriminate against female clergy in this way - they are in no way representative.

[CogitoErgoSometimes]

The argument for having Bishops involved in the legislation process, aside from historical reasons, is that they provide some kind of moral compass to the debate. However, if their morals continue to part company with mainstream society - not to mention their own congregation - that I think they've simply forfeited that right. Given the depth and breadth of CofE influence in everyday life - thinking about things like schools, for example - once they lose the respect & support of the general population they risk complete marginalisation.

[ttosca]

The argument for having Bishops involved in the legislation process, aside from historical reasons, is that they provide some kind of moral compass to the debate.

Because these Bishops are moral scientists, right?

[CogitoErgoSometimes]

What is a moral scientist?

[ttosca]

Yes, exactly my point.

So why should Bishop's be involved in legislation 'to provide a moral compass'?

[CogitoErgoSometimes]

I thought that had been the traditional role of representatives of the state religion. An ethical and moral perspective rather than being motivated by more prosaic concerns like commerce or party politics. If that perspective starts to warp away from mainstream society, the value of it is diminished.