Clergy Discipline Measure

The Clergy Discipline Measure 2003 (2003 No. 3), which came fully into force on 1st January 2006, provides a new structure for dealing efficiently and fairly with formal complaints of misconduct against members of the clergy, other than in relation to matters involving doctrine, ritual or ceremonial. All admitted to holy orders in the Church of England are covered by the Measure, whether or not in active ministry. Where the formal complaint concerns a priest or deacon, the disciplinary structure is centred on the bishop; where the complaint concerns a bishop, the structure is centred on the archbishop of the relevant province.

The new disciplinary procedures are outlined here. Links to information about the Clergy Discipline Rules and Appeal Rules, the availability of ecclesiastical legal aid, and the Code of Practice and other guidance are provided elsewhere on this page, as well as to details of practice directions issued by the President of Tribunals under section 4 of the Measure. If you have any general enquiries about the operation of the new disciplinary procedures which are not answered on these pages, please contact the Legal Office.