The Bishop of Worcester and a council leader are to settle a social media spat over religion and politics.

Rt Rev Dr John Inge and councillor Marc Bayliss, co-leader of Worcester City Council, clashed on Twitter earlier this year after the bishop condemned the behaviour of then Prime Minister, Boris Johnson.

Now, the two will settle the score with an in-person debate hosted by the Newman Association, a national organisation that encourages Christians to debate important issues in modern society.

John Duddington, chair of Newman Association in Worcester, said: “Moral issues constantly arise in politics.

“Think of debates on migration, the environment, the extent of educational opportunities and whether there can ever be a 'just war'.

“Views will always differ but if we ignore the moral dimension in public debate then all we are left with is self-interest.”

READ MORE: Twitter spat between Bishop and council leader over 'Partygate'

The disagreement began on Saturday, May 28, when councillor Bayliss took to Twitter to slam comments made by the bishop in regard to the Sue Gray report.

He wrote: “We appear to be living through a period when unelected bishops and archbishops appear to be trying to drive elected leaders from office.

“Democracy must always triumph over theocracy.”

Bishop John, who is a longstanding supporter of the World Development Movement, responded: “There are no bigger concerns than integrity and trust. Without them, we are lost.

“I never express party political views but I do stand up for decency and integrity in public life.”

The upcoming debate, at St George’s Church on Thursday September 22, will see the pair asked to explore what role, if any, morality ought to play in modern politics.

Mr Duddington, who is a barrister and legal scholar, will moderate the debate.

He is also editor of Law and Justice - the Christian Law Review and was, until his recent retirement, head of the Law School at Worcester College of Technology.

Topics for the debate include:

  • Is an immoral action justified even if it is legal?
  • Where are the limits of human rights?
  • Do politicians have to be virtuous and, indeed, do bishops?
  • Should religion interfere in politics?
  • Does the end justify the means?

Refreshments will be available and donations will go towards the Newman Association. 

Non-members of the Association are asked to consider a donation of £3 to help cover the costs of the debate and future events while students will have free access.

Tickets can be booked online on Eventbrite.