The Church of England’s General Synod has backed plans to fast track measures to allow women bishops by reducing the diocesan consultation period from six months to three.
This means that the first female bishop in the Church of England could be selected by the end of the year.
Vote
During this week's debate, 358 members voted to halve the consultation period, with 39 voting against the move and 9 abstaining.
If the legislation is approved by the dioceses by the deadline of 22nd May, the General Synod will then hold a final vote in July.
If passed, the measure will go to Parliament for approval and could be in force before Christmas.
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