A Legislative Council committee has concluded that removing the Bishop’s vote in Tynwald would likely prompt the Church of England to reconsider the future of the Diocese of Sodor and Man.
Lawrie Hooper has sought to remove the Bishop’s vote in what has proved a contentious debate amongst members and the wider island community.
In its report on the Isle of Man Constitution Bill 2023, the committee said: “We conclude that the loss of the Bishop’s vote makes it likely that the Church of England will consider the future of a separate Diocese of Sodor and Man.”
Archbishop
The Archbishop of York, Stephen Cottrell, reinforced this view in his evidence, saying: “Quite simply, the main reason there continues to be a Bishop of Sodor and Man is the continuity with a unique and important history of which the place in Tynwald is central.”
He added, “take away the role in Tynwald, and the justification for a separate diocese with all the cost that that entails becomes a very hard argument to win.”
The current Bishop, Patricia Hillas, also highlighted the risk, adding: “I believe that such a loss of distinctive identity befalling the Manx nation would be a tragedy and one which would be wholly unnecessary.”
The report notes the Bishop’s role in Tynwald dates back to at least 1614 and that sample voting records show the Bishop’s vote has rarely been decisive against the will of the House of Keys.
The Committee did not make a recommendation, leaving the final decision to individual Members.