Ecclesiastical Commissioners Act 1840

LXXII Benefices may be divided or consolidated, with Consent of Patrons.

And be it enacted, That with respect to any Parish in which both the Profits and the Spiritual Charge are divided between Two or more Incumbents, each having a Mediety or Portion of the Benefice, a Plan or Plans may be framed by the Bishop of the Diocese, with, the Consent of the Patron or Patrons, and so as not to prejudice the. Interests of any existing Incumbent, for constituting any of such Portions separate Benefices, or for consolidating Two or more of such Portions into One Benefice to be held by One: Incumbent, or for making such other Arrangements as he may judge likely to promote the efficient Discharge of Pastoral Duties in such Parishes; and any such Plan may be carried into effect by the Authority herein-after provided: Provided always, that nothing herein contained shall restrain the Bishop from doing any Act or exercising any Power which he may mow lawfully do or exercise without the Consent of the Patron or without the Aid of the said Commissioners.