Penalties etc.
48Recognition of external decisions etc.
(1)
This section applies where the President of Tribunals is satisfied that a priest, deacon, bishop or archbishop (a “cleric”) who holds a form of authority to exercise ministry in either province is subject to a finding made within a Church other than the Church of England which would, if it were made under this Measure, amount to a finding of misconduct.
(2)
This section also applies where the President of Tribunals is satisfied that a cleric who holds a form of authority to exercise ministry in either province is subject to a finding made within the Church of England in a territory where this Measure does not apply which would, if it were made under this Measure, amount to a finding of misconduct.
(3)
The President of Tribunals, having sought written representations from the Investigation and Tribunals Team and the cleric, may either—
(a)
take no action, or
(b)
refer the matter to a bishop’s disciplinary tribunal (in the case of a priest or deacon) or the Vicar-General’s court (in the case of a bishop or archbishop).
(4)
The President must record in writing the decision taken under subsection (3).
(5)
On a referral under subsection (3)(b), the tribunal or court may impose a penalty or administrative sanction.
(6)
A reference to being subject to a finding which would, if made under this Measure, amount to a finding of misconduct includes a reference to making an admission which would, if made under this Measure, amount to an admission of misconduct.