The Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction (Discipline) Rules 1964

Pronouncement of censure by bishop with consent

11.—(1) If the accused wishes the bishop of the diocese before whose registrar the complaint was laid to exercise his power under section 31 of the Measure to pronounce a censure on him with his consent, he may lodge with the registrar 2 copies of an application to the bishop to that effect.

(2) The application shall state the extent to which the accused admits the offence or offences charged and the allegations contained in the complaint, and the accused shall serve a copy thereof on the complainant.

(3) If the bishop decides to exercise his power under the said section, the registrar shall give not less than 7 days' notice in writing to the accused and the complainant of the time and place at which the censure will be pronounced, and they shall be entitled to be present; and the registrar shall attend the bishop when he pronounces sentence.

(4) The censure shall be reduced to writing and copies thereof shall be given to the accused and the complainant and to the registrar, who shall file his copy in the registry.

(5) If the bishop decides not to exercise his power under the said section, he shall give notice in writing of his decision to the accused and to the registrar and, if he has consulted with the complainant in accordance with the said section, to the complainant, and the registrar shall file the notice in the registry.