The Bishop of Ely, Dr Anthony Russell, took his seat in the House of Lords today (Monday 10 December 2007 at 2.30 pm) supported by the Bishops of Norwich and Salisbury.

He becomes one of 26 bishops and archbishops in the Lords. His duties include saying prayers before the House sits and he is entitled to vote and speak.

Dr Russell, who comes from a farming family, takes a keen interest in rural affairs and the farming community. He is the Church of England’s spokesman on agriculture and countryside matters and maintains a particular interest in the socio-economic aspects of rural and farming communities. He has written extensively on the subject and is well known as a speaker and commentator.

As Bishop of Ely, he is involved in many aspects of the University of Cambridge and supports a scientific approach to modern farming.

For details and more information:

Canon Owen Spencer-Thomas
Bishops’ Press Officer
52 Windsor Road
Cambridge
CB4 3JN

Mobile: 07801 492151
E-mail: owenst@btinternet.com

10th December 2007
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