Member

I suppose what I am saying is that the Bishops are the spiritual equivalents of the hereditaries. They inherit their role, though not by blood, and it has a real meaning. It is essentially a benevolent custom. Maybe it was not so when they were very rich and oppressive many years ago, but it has become largely benevolent, even though we all know the Church of England is going through a difficult time at present. They try honourably to discharge that role in your Lordships’ House, and that is important.