THE clergy should be given the right to appeal to an industrial tribunal for unfair dismissal, Brian Iddon has told the Church of England.

And it looks like his suggestion could become a reality.

The Bolton South-east MP took up the issue with Church Commissioner Stuart Bell in the Commons this week.

He is also campaigning to get registrars of births, marriages and deaths and rent officers the same right.

Dr Iddon asked: "In improving the clergy's conditions of service, will you consider allowing them to go to an industrial tribunal if they are unfairly dismissed?"

Mr Bell said: "Yes. That point has been raised and many MPs have supported that position.

"The point is being taken into account by various bodies within the Church and I am hopeful we shall have the result you would like."