BISHOPS IN THE LORDS

That this House notes the Government's proposals in the document The House of Lords: Reform that the reformed chamber should include Church of England bishops who will hold their seats as of right; further notes the overwhelming public wish shown in the 2002 consultation on Lords reform to abolish all automatic seats for Church of England bishops; believes that, in modern Britain, it is unacceptable for anyone to have a place in the legislature because of their religion or belief; further believes that, whether a reformed House of Lords contains elected members or members appointed on merit, no places should be assigned as of right on the basis of religion or belief; and calls for the automatic right of Church of England bishops to sit in the House of Lords to be removed.