8. To ask the hon. Member for Middlesbrough, representing the Church Commissioners, what paid posts in the offices of the Church Commissioners are subject to a test of religious belief in respect of (a) appointment and (b) promotion. (242329)

In relation to appointment, the posts of Secretary to the Church Commissioners and Chief Financial Officer both carry requirements that the post-holder be a practising Christian.

Religious belief is not a relevant factor in promotion (except to these two specific roles).