Andy Burnham has pledged to change an “antiquated and archaic anomaly” which prevents him, as Prime Minister, from advising on the appointment of bishops and archbishops.

As a professing Catholic, he is currently barred from advising the King on appointments in the Church of England and the Church of Scotland under the Roman Catholic Relief Act 1829. The Jews Relief Act 1858 puts the same restriction on those of the Jewish faith. 

In the modern day, the Prime Minister’s approval is symbolic. The Church puts its candidate forward, who will be approved. The practice dates back to the Reformation, when the monarch became head of the Church and took responsibility for appointing clergy. 

Burnham has confirmed that the Lord Chancellor, Alex Norris MP, will take on this responsibility in his place. But the Prime Minister is working to change this constitutional quirk. 

In a written statement to the House of Commons on Thursday, he said: “It is, however, unacceptable for there to be a legislative bar against people of any faith performing all the functions of my office. The Government will therefore introduce a Bill at the earliest possible opportunity to correct this antiquated and archaic anomaly.”

The appointment of Rt Rev Toby Howarth as Bishop of Leeds was made after Burnham came into office in July, but came under the advice of Sir Keir Starmer. 

There are nine current or upcoming vacancies for diocesan bishops.