Church to make historic vote on the future of women bishops

A debate whether to allow women to become bishops has started in the Church of England.

17:05 14 July 2014

Eighteen months after attempts to allow women to become bishops were blocked, the Church of England has started a debate ahead of crucial vote to decide on the issue.

The Archbishop of Canterbury has said he is “hopeful” the Synod will approve the legislation this round.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister David Cameron has praised Most Rev Justin Welby for his leadership on the issue and said he was in favour of women bishops.

Archbishop Welby said that there was a “good chance” that first woman bishop would be announced by the end of 2015.

Susie Leafe, from the Christian campaign group Reform, said that she is not in favour of women bishops.

"We are looking for the Church to follow biblical principles," she said.

"That means having a set of bishops that serve the flock and are male."

According to some experts, a yes vote would likely deepen divisions in the Church over the issue.

Of 7,798 full time CofE priests 1,781 of those are women. Just 28 Anglican women bishops operate worldwide.