The Church of England's General Synod is not known for its propensity for all-out brawls but officials are taking no chances, telling members to play nicely when they gather in Westminster next week.
While the CofE's parliament has been described as 'rude' and 'unchristian', it doesn't usually descend to the savagery seen across Parliament Square in the House of Commons where MPs have labelled each other 'dimwits', where former Tory MP Terry Dicks was described as 'living proof that a pig's bladder on the end of a stick can be elected to Parliament', and where Margaret Thatcher was accused of having 'the sensitivity of a sex-starved boa-constrictor'.
Nevertheless concern about synod's manners is such that Church officials have felt the need to produce a new code of conduct calling for 'Christlikeness and servanthood' and warning against using 'unbecoming language'.
'Members are reminded that they should not use abusive or insulting language, or make personal remarks about other members,' the guide says. It adds that 'Christlikeness' should extend to social media and instructs synod members: 'If you wouldn't say it to their face, please do not say it on social media.'
In a note to synod members last week, Canon Sue Booys admitted 'it is perhaps inevitable that feelings will run high' but hoped debate 'can be conducted in a manner that is fruitful, expeditious and worthy of the calling we share'.
The guide states: 'The General Synod is a public debating chamber, and views may be expressed with which others disagree or by which they may be offended. However, in speaking on controversial matters, members are urged to express themselves responsibly, being aware of how their views may be received by others.'
Despite the poor example set by MPs, the Church's code of conduct was drawn from guidance by the UK and Scottish Parliaments, as well as the so-called 'Nolan Principles' of the 'Seven Standards of Public Life'.
The code was first suggested to synod at its last meeting in July before being finalised for February's agenda.
