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Lords Spiritual Bill

A Bill to make provision for filling vacancies among Lords Spiritual sitting and voting as Lords of Parliament.

Originating House

House of Commons

Last Updated

26 April 2013

In Plain English

AI-generated

This bill would set out a formal process for filling vacancies among Lords Spiritual—the Church of England bishops who sit in the House of Lords. It would specify how and when replacements are chosen so that seats are not left empty, and that new bishops can sit and vote in Parliament. It would also clarify who is responsible for making and approving those appointments.

Key Points

Defines a clear process and timetable for replacing Lords Spiritual when a vacancy arises.
Clarifies appointment authority and eligibility criteria for replacing bishops while maintaining the Lords Spiritual’s size.
Aims to ensure uninterrupted ability of Lords Spiritual to sit and vote in the Lords.

Who is affected?

Bishops of the Church of England who are or could be Lords SpiritualThe Church of England as an institutionThe House of Lords (Lords Spiritual and overall composition)The Crown and government ministers involved in appointmentsThe general public, indirectly, through parliamentary representation

Generated 21 February 2026

Updates & Documents

News (1)

News - Lords Spiritual

1 Jan 1970

The Bill failed to complete its passage through Parliament before the end of the session. This means the Bill will make no further progress.

Parliamentary Votes (0)

No recorded votes for this bill yet.

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