Sir Robert Buckland has been appointed the new Third Church Estates Commissioner, succeeding the Rt Revd Dr Flora Winfield, who was recently appointed Bishop of Selby.
As Third Church Estates Commissioner, he will join the Church Commissioners for England’s Board of Governors, and chair the Mission, Pastoral and Church Property Committee, as well as the Bishoprics and Cathedrals Committee.
“It is good to welcome Sir Robert Buckland to this role, in which he will be responsible for looking after some of the nation’s most well-loved buildings, including the ancient cathedrals that have welcomed worshippers and pilgrims for hundreds of years,” said Archbishop of York Stephen Cottrell.
“Sir Robert Buckland’s background as a lawyer and public servant means he is ideally suited to this demanding role, which is central to the Church Commissioners’ role in enabling flourishing parish ministry, and its responsibilities as co-regulator of cathedrals. His wisdom will be invaluable in helping steward the Church of England’s ambitious drive towards net zero in its churches and buildings in a careful and considered manner,” said Alan Smith, the First Church Estates Commissioner. “I look forward to working with him and wish him every success.”
Sir Robert’s distinguished career in public service includes a period as HM Solicitor General for England and Wales, Lord Chancellor and Secretary of State for Justice, Minister of State for Prisons, and Secretary of State for Wales. He was a practising barrister for nearly twenty years and part time Crown Court judge, before becoming the Conservative MP for South Swindon in 2010. Sir Robert was awarded a KBE in the 2022 New Year Honours List.
“I am deeply honoured to be taking on this role,” said Sir Robert Buckland. “The Church Commissioners plays a crucial role in supporting the mission of the Church of England, not least by providing funding for ministry in 42 dioceses across the country and many of the country’s most-cherished buildings. I hope my work will help ensure our rich history and future mission is secure for many generations to come.”
He assumes the role of Third Church Estates Commissioner on 14th March.
