CLERGY from the diocese of Ripon and Leeds sit down next month to a debate on an issue which has split the Anglican Church in the past.

Until now, individuals have been left to decide if they should remarry divorcees in church - and there have been strong feelings both ways.

However, the Diocesan Synod will be asked to vote on the matter on Saturday, June 23, after an "open and frank" discussion at St Aidan's School in Harrogate.

The outcome will then be passed to the General Synod, which decides on future Church policy.

Two motions are suggested: that the Synod accepts there are circumstances in which divorcees can remarry in church and that the recommendations of a working party - formed to thrash out consistent guidelines on the issue - should be supported.

So far, other dioceses have backed the first, but indicated the proposals suggested so far are too "woolly" and could impose more responsibility on parish clergy.

The Bishop of Ripon and Leeds, the Right Reverend John Packer, who will chair the debate, said: "We need to devise consistent guidelines.

"I have conducted such services, but I recognise there are some priests who, in principle, cannot agree with remarriage.

"Under the new guidelines they will not be obliged to conduct such services against their consciences."