LegCo to vote on Bishop's role in Tynwald

Church warns future of Manx diocese could be at stake

The Legislative Council is preparing for a landmark vote which could see the Bishop of Sodor and Man lose the right to vote in the Island’s political proceedings.

A report to be considered by members includes a warning from the Church of England that it may review whether the Isle of Man should continue to have its own diocese if the change is approved.

It’s understood that if the Bishop’s voting powers are removed, a panel will be convened to decide whether the position remains on the Island at all.

The report notes that the Bishop’s seat in Tynwald dates back many centuries. Although the Bishop is rarely decisive in votes, the Church argues that the issue is one of principle - maintaining a voice and accountability within the parliamentary process.

Almost 3,000 people took part in a public consultation on the matter, with views described as almost evenly split.

An amendment to the Bill has also been tabled which would see the Bishop’s vote removed only after the current Bishop’s tenure ends.

MLC Paul Craine, who chaired the committee responsible for compiling the report, believes many political members and members of the public underestimate the historic significance of the Bishop’s presence in Tynwald.

He points out that documents suggest a Bishop lived on the Isle of Man more than 1,600 years ago - before Canterbury had its own bishop - and suggests there may even be tourism and economic potential in retaining the role:

Meanwhile, Bishop Patricia Hillas has told Manx Radio she hopes her position will continue to have the “fullest” role in Tynwald, describing it as something “distinctive” and “apolitical”.

She praised members for carefully considering the issue, saying she wishes to remain accountable for her votes and to continue “shaping the Island for good” through listening, attending, and connecting communities: