Incumbents (Vacation of Benefices) Measure 1977

Part IIE Institution of Enquiry into Disability of Incumbent

6 Enquiry whether incumbent is unable to discharge duties by reason of age or infirmity.E

(1)Subject to subsection (2) below, in any case where the bishop of a diocese is satisfied that it is proper to do so he may by notice in writing instruct the secretary of the diocesan synod to [F1institute an enquiry as to whether] the incumbent of a benefice in the diocese is unable by reason of age or infirmity of mind or body to discharge adequately the duties attaching to his benefice and, if so, whether it is desirable that he should resign his benefice or be given assistance in discharging those duties.

[F2(1A)An enquiry under this section shall be conducted by a provincial tribunal for the province in which the benefice in question is situated.]

(2)This section shall not apply to an incumbent who is also—

(a)a suffragan bishop to whom the [F3Bishops (Retirement) Measure 1986] applies; or

(b)a dean, provost or archdeacon to whom the M1Church Dignitaries (Retirement) Measure 1949 applies.