Glover refuses to sign Bishop's vote bill over diocese concerns

The MHK says he cannot support legislation removing the Bishop's vote in Tynwald, warning it could put the historic diocese at risk

Arbory, Castletown and Malew MHK Tim Glover has confirmed he will not sign the bill which would remove the Bishop of Sodor and Man’s voting rights in Legislative Council and Tynwald.

His decision follows a similar announcement by Onchan MHK Rob Callister, who has also said he will not add his signature to the legislation.

In a statement posted on social media, Mr Glover claims he supported the principle of addressing concerns around unelected members having a vote, but could not back the bill because of what he described as the potential unintended consequence of losing the Island’s diocese.

He argues the diocese was a "small and special" part of the Isle of Man’s identity, and said the vote appeared to prioritise ideology over what he believed was in the Island’s best interests.

Mr Glover added that a future House of Keys could seek to reverse the position if a majority of like-minded members were elected, saying the issue had now become a matter for voters to consider at the next general election.

The bill, which has already been approved, requires the signatures of at least 13 MHKs and five MLCs to proceed to Royal Assent.