Bill to remove bishop from Isle of Man Parliament moves forward
Publisher: In-Sight Publishing
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Publication: Freethought Newswire
Original Link: https://humanists.uk/2024/06/12/bill-to-remove-bishop-from-isle-of-man-parliament-moves-forward/
Publication Date: June 12, 2024
Organization: Humanists UK
Organization Description: Humanists UK is the operating name of the British Humanist Association. We are a charitable company (no. 228781), formed in 1896 and incorporated in 1928, and registered in England and Wales. Our governing document is our Articles of Association, which can be viewed here.
Tynwald (Manx Parliament) has moved closer to removing the automatic right of the Bishop of Sodor and Man to vote. Humanists UK welcomes this progress towards making Manx politics fair and inclusive for all.
The Constitution Bill 2023 had already progressed through the House of Keys, the lower house of Tynwald. It has now passed its first crucial step in the Legislative Council, the upper house. This ‘principles stage’ allows members to vote on the principles of the bill. Six members voted for it and two against. The bill follows on from a public consultation earlier this year which saw Manx citizens come out in support of removing the bishop’s right to vote. It will now move forward to its ‘clauses stage’ where the Legislative Council may propose amendments and add clauses.
The situation on the Isle of Man reflects that in the UK, where 26 bishops of the Church of England have automatic seats in the House of Lords. The bishops regularly vote and contribute in debate while enjoying privileges over and above other peers. These include privileged speaking rights in the chamber (if a bishop stands to speak, all others are expected to stop speaking and sit down), and unique exemptions from the Code of Conduct.
Humanists UK Director of Public Affairs and Policy Richy Thompson said:
‘We welcome the continued progression of this bill and the movement towards a more fair and equal democracy in the Isle of Man. No religion or belief should be given entrenched voting rights within a legislature as of right. It privileges adherents to that religion – or, more specifically, their clergy – over all others. Given that Anglicans are overrepresented in Parliament anyway, this is particularly egregious. We hope that Westminster can take heed from the steps the Isle of Man is taking and both can ensure all religions and beliefs are put on an equal footing.’
Assisted dying debate
Yesterday also saw the House of Keys debate the Assisted Dying Bill – the third day of its clauses stage. The debate represented continued progress for the Bill, which will legalise assisted dying for those who are terminally ill. The next clauses stage debate of the Bill will happen on 25 June, with the subsequent ‘third reading’ probably not taking place until after summer.
Notes
For further comment or information, media should contact Humanists UK Director of Public Affairs and Policy Richy Thompson at press@humanists.uk or phone 0203 675 0959.
Read more about our work on House of Lords reform.
Humanists UK is the national charity working on behalf of non-religious people. Powered by over 120,000 members and supporters, we advance free thinking and promote humanism to create a tolerant society where rational thinking and kindness prevail. We provide ceremonies, pastoral care, education, and support services benefitting over a million people every year and our campaigns advance humanist thinking on ethical issues, human rights, and equal treatment for all.
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