In these times of “austerity” it is
nice to know that our Christian elite, are being cushioned from the
ravishes of the “deficit reduction” plan. In that unelected club
for the privileged, “The House of Lords” it seems that there are
provisions for 26 “Lords Spiritual” (Bishops) to take their place
in that hallowed hall. Of course we couldn't expect them to turn up
and give “spiritual leadership” for nothing. These holy men can,
and lots do, claim up to £27,000 a year for blessing the place with
their presence. On top of that they can claim up to £300 a day for
hotel and living allowance plus travel expenses. And guess what, they
don't have to produce receipts.
It is a nice little sideline when you
already have a job, Bishops live rent free in their diocese, and
along with the provision of a free official car, claiming for
entertaining guests, heating and lighting, cleaners and gardeners,
they can draw on extra allowances to run their fine homes from the
Church Commissioners.
During the year from October 2010 to
November 2011:
* The Bishop of Chester attended the House on 97 days, claiming
£27,600 in attendance allowances and £7,309 in travel expenses.
* The Bishop of Liverpool attended on 60 days, claiming £15,600
for attendance and £4,220 in expenses.
* Other significant claimers included the Bishop of Exeter
(£11,550), the Bishop of Leicester (£8,850) and the Bishop of
Wakefield (£10,650).
By the way, the little bunch of Church Commissioners
could be called the Wall St. of the Church, as they manage the Church of England's £5billion property and shares
portfolio.
As well as being firmly embedded in the
seat of power in this country, the Church is also a big player in
the capitalist world.
