Views split as bill to remove bishop's vote passes

Opinions are divided on whether the Isle of Man's bishop should retain voting rights in Tynwald.

Under The Constitution Bill 2023 which was passed by members of the House of Keys (MHKs) this week, the bishop will retain their seat but no longer be allowed to vote.

MHKs also approved changes that will delay the removal of voting rights until the incumbent, the Right Reverend Patrica Hillas, leaves office.

Onchan MHK Rob Callister, who has been vocal in his opposition to the new law, said he would not sign the legislation when it is presented in Tynwald for signatures before it is sent for Royal Assent.

He said the decision was "not about faith or religion, but rather about the island's constitutional workings of its parliament and the role the Lord Bishop plays".

Callister raised concerns that the Church of England may look to remove the island's Diocese of Sodor and Man as a result.

"The full consequences of Tuesday's vote may not be apparent for several years," he warned.

The Diocese of Sodor and Man and the Church of England have both declined to comment.

People who spoke with BBC Isle of Man in Douglas were divided on the issue, with some passionate about keeping the bishop's voting rights, and others at the opposite end of the spectrum.

Fiona Kellagher said: "It's tricky because obviously they've got lots of experience in providing counsel, but if they're not elected then I can see why people would only want elected people representing their thoughts and opinions.

"I think it's fine if they're just there in a sort of advisory capacity but don't have an official vote like members of the House of Keys do," she added.

Ian Warborn, from Regaby, said he thought the bishop's right to vote was antiquated and "a bit of an anachronism".

He added that a position of "seniority of any religion" should not "by default have a vote in any parliament".

But Heather Price said: "I do think the bishop should be in Tynwald, voting as well."

She believed it was "important" to retain "a moral voice in the community" within parliament.

"I am a Christian and I do think it's important," she added.

Philip Kyle, from Northern Ireland and a member of the Presbyterian church, thought the most important part was retaining the bishop's seat, rather than voting rights.

He explained: "It's useful to have someone who has knowledge of the scriptures... to be sitting there to be able to give advice to politicians on moral issues.

"It's good to have someone there who, even if they don't have any vote, can give advice."

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